Home Care for the Declawed Cat

Remember, you are now rehabilitating a handicapped indoor
animal, so plenty of TLC is necessary, especially for the older
cat. You will find that your pet is tender for at least the
first 2 weeks after surgery. The normal running, jumping gait
can take up to 2 months to return. There is a possibility
regardless of all precautions, post-operative lameness problems
may persist even after the patient is healed from surgery.

Some Home Care tips:

* Keep your pet’s normal food and water in a low, easily
accessible spot to prevent her from jumping.

* Line the litter pan(s) with shredded newspaper instead of
litter (do this for one week at least.)

You Can Expect:

* Some lameness for up to 2 weeks.

* Hesitancy to jump.

* Some light scabs at the edge of the toes.

Please Report:

* An animal walking 3-legged and persistently holding up one paw.

* A lethargic cat acting very tired and refusing to move.

* A cat not eating.

* A cat persistently licking at one spot on the paws.

* A cat with drainage or bleeding from the paws.

If you observe any other unusual behavior, please contact your
veterinarian immediately.

The above is general veterinary information. Do not begin
any course of treatment without consulting your regular
veterinarian. All animals should be examined at least once every
12 months.