Do Vets judge cat owners who have declawed cats?

Hello there! It's wonderful that you're reaching out for advice on this. Declawing is indeed a topic that brings up a lot of emotions both for pet owners and veterinary professionals. The most important thing to remember is that our focus is always on the well-being and happiness of your cat.



In recent years, many vets have learned more about the long-term impacts that declawing can have on cats, and there is a growing focus on alternatives to manage scratching, such as regular nail trims, scratching posts, and soft nail caps. But don't worry—we're not here to judge! We know that pet owners make decisions with their pets’ best interests at heart, often based on the information available at the time.



If your cat is already declawed, it's key to watch out for signs of discomfort, like limping, reluctance to walk or play, or changes in their behavior. Making sure their environment is comfortable with soft surfaces and checking their paws regularly for any irritation can help.



If you're seeing signs of pain or behavioral changes, or if you simply want to discuss how to best care for your cat’s paws moving forward, it might be a good idea to book a video consult with one of our friendly vets on Dial A Vet. We're here to help support you in looking after your furry friend!