A Thoughtful Shift Toward Cat Wellness
Cat declawing has been a complicated and emotional topic for cat lovers and veterinary professionals alike. At Ralston Vet, our approach to care continues to evolve, just like veterinary medicine itself. As of June 2025, we made the decision to no longer offer elective declawing procedures.
This was not a snap decision. Until recently, we limited declaws to medically appropriate cases involving front paws only, typically for cats under one year of age. However, after conversations among our medical and leadership teams, as well as reflection on current veterinary standards, we feel strongly that stepping away from this procedure better aligns with our mission of compassionate, whole-pet care.
Why Declawing Isn’t Just “Removing the Nails”
A common misconception is that declawing is a simple or benign procedure, like trimming nails or removing just the claw. In reality, it is a surgical amputation that removes the last bone of each toe. While some cats recover without outward signs of discomfort, others may experience phantom limb pain, long-term lameness, or behavior changes that aren’t always linked back to the procedure.
In one case shared by Nicole Mathis, CVPM & LVT, a patient continued to show signs of pain long after surgery. Despite no evidence of injury, the cat reacted to touch and moved cautiously. X-rays ruled out orthopedic issues, and the eventual conclusion was phantom pain, a difficult and frustrating experience for both the client and pet.
It’s Okay to Ask, “Why Did We Ever Do This?”
Like all medicine, veterinary practices evolve. As more data and experiences are shared, the profession continues to improve. For many years, declawing was widely accepted as a behavioral solution. Now, we know more and can do better. We don’t judge pet parents who have chosen cat declawing in the past, especially when it was recommended or seemed necessary at the time. Going forward, we believe that honoring the natural needs of cats leads to better health outcomes and fewer complications.
Nicole Mathis, CVPM, LVT and Integrator at Ralston Vet, shares: “Declawing is an amputation, and while we used to view it as a behavioral fix, our understanding has changed. It’s part of practicing better medicine to adjust when we know more. We want clients to feel supported and educated, not guilty.”
Scratching Is Natural And Manageable
Scratching isn’t just about furniture. It’s a biological and emotional need for cats. It helps them stretch, mark territory, self-soothe, and shed the outer layers of their claws. Our goal is not to eliminate scratching, but to redirect it in healthy and sustainable ways.
We can help you:
- Choose cat trees, cardboard scratchers, and vertical or horizontal pads your cat will actually use
- Explore calming & behavior pheromones such as Feliway
- Use deterrents and strategic placement to protect furniture
- Learn positive reinforcement techniques to change habits
- Trim nails safely (or teach you how)
- Explore nail caps or other tools for added protection
Many cats respond well with small changes and consistent support. Our LVTs are available for consults, and we offer video guides and resource handouts to support your efforts at home.
Practicing the Best Medicine Means Evolving
Ending elective cat declaws brings us closer to our goals as a low-stress, AAHA-accredited, employee-owned practice. This is about science, empathy, and what we believe is best for cats moving forward. Nicole puts it simply: “Medicine is always changing, and it’s important to be up on the changes that improve quality of life for pets.”
We also want to acknowledge that change takes time, for teams, for clients, and for communities. That’s why we welcome questions and conversations. If you’re navigating challenging scratching behaviors, we’re here to help, not to judge.
Let’s Support Your Cat, Together
Whether you’re welcoming a new kitten or supporting a longtime feline companion, we’re your partner in creating a claw-friendly home and a confident, well-supported cat.
Call us at 402-331-6322, visit ralstonvet.com, or talk with a member of our care team. We’re happy to connect you with a Licensed Vet Tech, share claw-care tips, or recommend the best tools for your household.
We’re here for all cats, clawed, declawed, senior, spicy, or shy. And we’re proud to support the journey of lifelong feline wellness with you.
