cat declawed

Question
my cat is 4 yrs. she has leukemia. she never goes outside.
she is sweet,but claws at everything,evev if i get her cat
toys to use. i have to get her declawed to keep her. i love
her,will it be safe or change her.

                                   sharon

Answer
Hi Sharon,

I would refer you to a question someone just sent me about her cat who was recently declawed and the paws are oozing puss and she won't eat or drink because she's so sick from infection.  I never recommend declawing, I think you can keep the kitty's claws clipped with a regular finger nail clipper (just clip off the point) and she won't be able to get her nail in to do any damage.  I have seen so many cats maimed by bad declawing and cats who stop using their litter boxes because the litter either feels weird or hurts their paws.  Statistically speaking a higher percentage of declawed cats are turned in to rescues and shelters than non declawed cats because of new behavioral problems.  There are cats that do just fine with it but I would consider your options and really do your research on the vet who does it, make sure he or she is well respected in the field.  I would also tell you that declawing is not just the removal of the claw but rather the amputating of the last segment of their toes.  Please consider wisely.