How Laser Cat Claw Removal Works

Scratched floors, carpets, furniture and appliances – these are things that most, if not all, cat owners have in common. Many cat owners who view scratching as a behavioral problem in their cats seek methods to remove the claws. The standard surgical procedure of cat claw removal is called “onychectomy”. However, a new technology has been developed for faster treatment and recovery. Laser cat claw removal is the latest procedure used to declaw cats.

Laser cat claw removal works by removing the Third or Distal Phalanx, which is the last bone in a cat’s foot. The claws are rooted to this bone. To permanently remove the claws, the veterinarian uses laser technology to amputate the Distal Phalanx together with the claws. The process of removing the claws is basically the same in all types of procedures, only the equipment used is different.

Unlike Onychectomy, a laser cat claw removal uses laser light to cut all the way through the tissue of the claws. The laser heats and vaporizes the tissues. By doing this procedure, the cat will experience minimal pain, will not bleed excessively and will easily recover. Additionally, the procedure is a lot faster than the normal way of removing a cat’s claws through surgical tools such as a scalpel or a knife. However, you still need to wrap the cat’s toes and paws in a bandage. Usually, it takes a few weeks for a cat to normally walk but for some they recover faster and can move normal again.

Laser cat claw removal can be the answer to a cat owner’s problems but, physiologically, cats use their claws and toes to walk. Removing the claws will cause uneasiness to the cat especially when walking, running and climbing. Cats also use their claws to maintain their balance, for grooming themselves and for self defense against other animals. There are some reports that cats acquire arthritis and would even develop different, unnatural stance and posture as a result of laser cat claw removal.

Certainly, laser cat claw removal has more advantages than the traditional way of claw removal. However, it would be best to consult a veterinarian to know more about the procedure, the cost of the laser surgery and if there are other ways that a cat owner can try before resorting to declawing. If you are decided about having your cat’s claws removed, it is best to have a good understanding about performing laser surgery on cats as well as what to expect after.