The term "declaw" is a misnomer, and implies that just the claws are removed. This is untrue—declawing actually involves amputation of the end of the cat’s toes. Cats suffer significant pain recovering from declawing. An alternative surgery—called tenectomy—severs the tendons in the toes so the cat is unable to extend the nails to scratch. There appears to be less pain associated with recovery from this surgery. Owners who opt for this surgery must clip the cat’s nails regularly because the cat is unable to maintain them himself.

The ASPCA highly discourages either form of surgery. Indeed, declawing and tenectomy are illegal in some European countries. It is ASPCA policy to recommend considering such surgeries only if concerted behavior modification efforts have failed and euthanasia is pending.

Courtesy ASPCA