Download Behaviors of Declawed Cats

Behaviors of Declawed Cats
Although some declawed kitties have behavioral changes after their
surgery, they are still very much in need of a good and loving home.
It is not their fault that this was done to them, so the way they act
needs to be understood to ensure better success in their future
home. Listed below are some of the more common issues that come
up with some declawed cats.
Declawing May Lead to Litter Box Problems
Declawed cats often associate the pain when digging in litter with the litter
box itself, and will avoid it, choosing softer carpeting instead. Try looking for
a soft clumping litter, and also put some newspaper around litter box in case
they miss. More drastic measures are sometimes needed – i.e. using soft
shredded newspapers instead of litter.
Declawing Sometimes Leads to Biting Problems
When cats lose their ability to give a quick warning scratch, they will often
resort to their second line of defense: a good, hard bite. The cat's owner may
sometimes find himself the victim, just when he thinks his cat is enjoying a
petting session. Watch for the warning signs in your declawed kitty and give
them their space when needed, sometimes they don’t trust humans as well
as normal cats after all, humans amputated their toes.
Cats Need the Exercise Their Claws and Toes Provide
Watch a cat stretch, whether horizontally on a carpet or vertically with a tall
scratching post. He will grab the carpet or sisal with his claws, using the
resistance to pull and stretch his muscles. Cats' claws actually play a large
and positive role in their amazing muscle tone and agility. Since they are
unable to scratch for their exercise, make sure that you are putting their food
in another room besides where they sleep so they have to walk to eat. Some
declawed cats that do not get enough exercise can get overweight, and this
may lead to diabetes and other health issues.
Altered Gait May Lead to Later Joint Problems
Domestic cats are digitigrades, meaning they walk on their toes. Walking
with an altered gait because of the lack of the first digit of the toes can affect
all the joints of the leg, resulting later in arthritis of the hip and other joints.
You can try a glucosamine for cats to help their joints, but other than that,
there really is not much you can do.