Exam 2 - Onychectomy Flashcards
What are the pros to declawing?
May be the only option to keep a cat in a household and not break the human animal bonds - may increase surrender/rehoming rates
May be necessary to protect immunocompromised individuals in the household
May increase euthanasia rates (not having it done - not proven)
What are the cons to declawing?
Ethically controversial
Not without complications
Banned in many areas of Europe and Canada
Banned in LA, San Francisco, and NY state
DVM performing the procedure could be at risk for social media bullying
What should you communicate to your client about declawing?
It is a last resort procedure and there are alternatives
What do veterinarians need to make sure clients understand about declawing?
It is not a medically necessary procedure in most instances
Scratching is a normal feline behavior
Declawing is amputation of P3
Inherent risks and complications with the procedure that may be more apparent with age including infections, acute and neuropathic pain, nerve trauma, lameness, and behavioral problems
What alternatives to declawing should the veterinarian discuss with their clients before choosing declawing?
Provide cats with scratching posts and pads
Trim nails regularly
Consider nail caps
Use facial pheromones to help relieve anxiety
Provide environmental enrichment
What should you do to protect yourself from legal ramifications of declawing?
Document the discussion in the record and have owners sign a release form
What peri-operative pain management is recommended for declawing?
NSAID +/- opioid for at least 24-48 hours
What nerve block is performed in patients that are getting declawed?
4 point regional block
What are the surgical techniques for declawing?
Guillotine nail trimmers, scalpel blade, and surgical laser
What are the risks to guillotine nail trimmers?
Increased risk of infections and retained P3 fragments and you may remove large portions of the pad
What are the pros to using a scalpel blade for a declaw?
More precise control than the guillotine and able to retain the pad better
What are the benefits to using a surgical laser for declawing?
May decrease post-operative pain and post-operative complications such as reluctance to jump or chewing at feet
What are retained P3 fragments associated with?
Increased risk for back pain, inappropriate urination, and aggression
How are declaw patients surgically prepped?
typically soak in antibacterial solution
How is hemostasis managed in declaw patients?
Place a tourniquet unless using a laser (it cauterizes as it cuts
