How much does it cost to declaw a cat? Declawing cats is an emotional and controversial topic because it involves removing the cat’s first line of defense: its sharp nails and bones that hold the nails. The American Veterinary Medical Association and the Academy of Feline Medicine both stress that cat owners should be educated about the procedure, the risks, and the alternatives before making a decision.
Although the cost to declaw a cat can vary depending on the individual case, it is typically between $600 and $1,800. This price range takes into account other associated costs with this type of surgery, such as veterinarian bills. The cost of a veterinarian can differ based on geographic location. Knowing common complications or additional costs can help pet owners get a better estimate.
Declawing a cat, also known as onychectomy, is a major surgical procedure that removes the animal’s claws completely. This process can be extremely painful for the cat, and alternatives should always be explored first. Most veterinarians will require you to try other solutions before they agree to declaw a cat. Some veterinarians will not declaw cats at all, and some areas in the United States, as well as other countries, have outlawed this practice. Declawing a cat should be the last possible option available, as it can cause immense physical and psychological harm to the animal.
The cost of declawing a cat
It depending on the clinic you visit and the type of procedure you choose. The table below lists some of the common costs associated with declawing, so you can get an idea of what to expect.
Procedure Low End High End Physical $50 $80 ,Declaw Procedure $175 $600
Speak with your veterinarian for a more accurate estimate
The cost of having a cat declawed can depend on several factors, so it’s best to speak with your veterinarian for a more accurate estimate. Your cat will need a full physical examination first to see what exactly is needed.
The cost of a declaw procedure can differ based on the animal hospital you take your cat to, as well as other factors such as your cat’s age, weight, and medical history. Generally, a declaw procedure for a young, healthy cat will be less expensive than one for an older or overweight feline.
Veterinarian will examine your cat prior to his declawing procedure
Your veterinarian will examine your cat prior to his declawing procedure in order to get a sense of his overall health and which procedure will be the best to use. The examination fee for this will depend on the hospital – for example, in Los Angeles, CA, the fee may be $65.
The cost of a pre-surgical exam at another clinic in Albany, OR may be around $50. This does not include the cost of blood work, which can be as low as $65 for a presurgical panel or as high as $185 for a full blood panel with a urinalysis. Such tests are highly recommended prior to surgery to uncover any conditions that may affect your cat’s recovery.
Different ways to declaw a cat
There are a few different ways to declaw a cat, so the cost will depend on which procedure you and your veterinarian choose. The medical term for declawing is onychectomy. Keep in mind that it’s usually only recommended to declaw the front paws.
The scalpel blade/nail trimmer is a device used by veterinarians to amputate the last bone of each toe and the associated claws using a guillotine-style nail trimmer or a scalpel blade. This device usually costs around $175 to $325.
Laser surgery – Priced between $350 and $600. A surgical laser is used to amputate the bone and associated claws. This is the most expensive method of declawing a cat; however, it’s believed to be less painful in the immediate post-operative period. The risk of post-surgical bleeding is also less.
However, it is extremely important that the vet performing the laser procedure be very experienced using the equipment because it’s possible to burn the tissues during the process.
The cost of anesthesia
Anesthesia costs will depend on the length of your cat’s procedure and their weight. Most vets prefer to declaw kittens who are under 6 months old, but some will do it for cats up to 5 years old. The amount of anesthesia needed will be different in both cases, so be sure to ask your vet about this during your cat’s initial consultation. Most animal hospitals include the cost of anesthesia in their overall charge, but this can often add a lot to the final bill.
Cost of an immediate visit at the vet can be significant
The cost of an overnight stay at the vet can be significant, depending on the type of procedure your cat needs. Some vets prefer to do the surgery early in the morning and keep the animal in recovery at the clinic until late afternoon. In other cases, it may be necessary to keep the cat at the clinic overnight. How long your cat has to stay depends on which type of procedure is used. Whether your cat is being spayed or neutered at the same time can also affect the length of hospitalization.
With surgical procedure use of antibiotic injection
As with any surgical procedure, there is always a risk of infection. To help prevent this, your veterinarian may give your kitty an antibiotic injection at the time of surgery. In some cases, they may also prescribe oral antibiotics for a period of time after the surgery. The cost of the medication will depend on the antibiotic used and the size of your kitty.
Pain medication to help them recover
Declawing can be painful for your cat, and they will need pain medication to help them recover. There are three main types of pain management: oral medication, injection, and medicated patch. The cost of each method varies depending on the type of medication used and how long your pet needs to take it. Many clinics include the cost of pain medication in their flat procedural fee. Be sure to ask if this is included in your estimate
Searching for a clinic to get your pet declawed
It is important to compare not just the base price but also what is included in that price. Some clinics will offer a lower price but then bill separately for items such as medications, blood tests, and hospitalization, so be sure to ask about that up front. Also, be aware that the methods used and the fee structure of the clinic can vary, so you may be able to find a more cost-effective option by doing some research ahead of time.
Your cat’s individual recovery time and any potential complications that may arise
Asking your veterinarian essential questions during your cat’s preliminary exam can help you understand your cat’s individual recovery time and any potential complications that may arise. Here are some key questions to ask: -Which procedural method will be used? -What complications can arise as a result of this method? -Are there any contraindications to the method used? -What additional costs may be incurred as a result of any complications? By asking these questions, you can be better prepared for your cat’s recovery and manage any potential complications that may arise.
Compare prices between clinics before making your final decision
When you’re trying to decide on a declaw procedure for your cat, it’s important to remember that this decision is not one to take lightly – especially because it can be quite costly. Don’t hesitate to compare prices between clinics before making your final decision. It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to consult with multiple veterinarians without being charged multiple exam or consultation fees, so it’s important to go into your decision armed with the knowledge of what causes major price differences. That way, you can make the best decision for both you and your cat.
When it comes to your cat’s health, always prioritize the efficiency, competence, and compassion of your veterinarian over the cost of care.