Onyxectomy: term which means amputation of phalanges. To have a cat decrypt is to amputate the third phalange of each finger. This is a major surgical procedure, and even if it uses a laser technique, the operation and the pain are traumatic for the animal. This practice could involve many complications and risks. In addition, the cat could react to anesthetic products. After the operation, it is important to obtain a special litter box to avoid infection of the wounds.

In several countries, this intervention is no longer practiced, having even become illegal. However, in Quebec, it is still authorized, but several veterinary clinics no longer offer this service. There are a number of reasons why a cat owner should have his pet decrypted. Whether it is the feline use of the couch as a scratcher or the human fear for the safety of a child or other animal, it is important to know that there are other alternatives to onyxectomy.

In the same way as rubbing whiskers on the door frames, this innate behavior indicates that they want to do their territory. Glands located under their legs secrete their pheromones in order to delimit this territory, even when it is a single cat. It is also simply because these objects are well located in the house.

Just like human nails, their claws are constantly growing. They scratch objects to sharpen them, so the use of claw guards, either small vinyl or plastic caps—which you will sometimes find in different colours in pet stores—is a very good solution. Trim the claws before installing these accessories so they last longer. With special glue, it only takes a few minutes. It will continue to do the same claw sharpening movements, but will not damage the furniture. In addition, sold in several shapes and sizes, the claw cutter, used every two weeks, will help the cat reduce its need to sharpen them. In order to make this action enjoyable, give him treats from time to time to reward him. In cats, veins can be seen more easily, but be careful not to cut them. Another reason for this behaviour is their need to stretch their spine to relax. Getting the right scratcher is a good way to prevent the cat from scratching the furniture.

If there is one in the house but the cat does not use it, it is probably because it is poorly located in the room. If, otherwise, there is no room in the house for him to display his claws, getting one and educating the cat to use it is another good way to keep your furniture intact for as long as possible. As you will have noticed, a good place for the scratcher or cat tree is near the couch or in the entrance of a room, or even near a window so that it can look outside.

The equipment used will greatly encourage your pet to plant its claws. Carpets, ropes, cardboard, wood or even a mixture of all these materials could prove a winning formula for your cat.

Notice the height of the grafts on your couch. They are usually where the cat can go when it stretches all its length. So, to maximize your chances, choose a 36-inch vertical scratcher, high enough for your hairball to stretch the entire spine.

Another very important point is the flattening of the structure. A broad base is essential. To add the winning ingredient, there could be a shelf for the cat to lie down on.

Make the scratcher attractive by installing a feather toy attached to a rope. He will want to go there and play.

Finally, tenotomy, also a surgical procedure, is a less painful and traumatic alternative for the animal. It involves cutting the tendon responsible for the retraction of the nail. In this way, the bone is not touched and the cat retains its third phalanx. After this operation, it is important to maintain the claws periodically – as they continue to grow – by pruning them and removing the dirt accumulated at the base of the claws.

It is not only necessary to educate your cat not to scratch but also essential to teach children to leave the animal its living space. The body signs that the cat is planning are essential to know so that no accident occurs. Before having your pet declawed, think that even if it is an indoor cat, the possibility is not zero that it will slip between your legs and run away. In nature, predators and dangers arise from everywhere. The claws of a cat are his first defense, which will allow him to survive alone, especially if he does not know the outside or how to survive. His instinct will come into play, so he can hunt, climb trees and obviously defend himself and eat.