Felines First Veterinary Hospital
New Bern's Only Cat-Only Veterinarian
Our Policy on Declawing Procedures
At Felines First Veterinary Hospital, we hold a steadfast stance against the practice of declawing cats. This stance is rooted in our unwavering commitment to the ethical treatment of feline companions. We firmly agree with the 2017 AAFP Declawing Position and Statement, and we proudly identify ourselves as Gold Member Practice of the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP).​
We acknowledge that declawing is an ethically controversial procedure. It involves the amputation of the third phalanx (P3), which is equivalent to amputating a human finger at the last joint. This procedure causes unnecessary pain and suffering to our feline friends, and we believe it should not be performed as an elective procedure and only in the rare medical necessity such as issues like neoplasia or severe trauma where alternative treatments aren't feasible.
Scratching is a normal feline behavior, both inherited and learned. Our approach is to educate cat owners about these behaviors rather than suppress them through declawing. Understanding and managing these behaviors are vital for a harmonious relationship between you and your cat.
We encourage cat owners to explore humane alternatives to declawing, such as providing high-quality scratching posts and pads, regular claw trimming, temporary synthetic nail caps, and using synthetic facial pheromones to reduce anxiety or stress. These alternatives not only protect your furniture but also allow your cat to express their natural behaviors.
We want cat owners to be aware that declawing carries inherent risks and complications that increase with age. These risks include acute pain, infection, nerve trauma, and long-term complications like lameness, behavioral problems, and chronic neuropathic pain. We are here to provide guidance on avoiding these risks while ensuring your cat's well-being.
At Felines First Veterinary Hospital, we are wholly dedicated to promoting the physical and emotional health of your feline companions. Our experienced team of veterinarians and staff members is committed to delivering compassionate care, education, and support. We aim to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to understand your cat's needs and behaviors fully.
Our belief is that by educating cat owners about feline behavior and providing alternatives to declawing, we can foster a loving and enriching relationship between you and your cherished feline friend. Together, we can create an environment where your cat thrives, expressing their natural behaviors and enjoying a life of comfort and happiness.