Possibly future health issues re: declawed

clario6372

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I adopted my cat Frankie about a year ago, and I adopted her already declawed. I have seen a few mentions of increased likelihood of arthritis and other issues in declawed cats, and I was wondering if there is any kind of preventative care (i.e. vitamins or other) that I can do now to head off any future issues at the pass, so to speak. 

Additionally, what are the known future issues of a declaw? What should I be on the lookout for?

Any recommendations? I would never have declawed her myself but I'd like to help her have a happy and healthy life like any other cat. 

Thanks!
 

stephanietx

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I had a declawed cat adopt me and she was wonderful!  The only "problem" we had with her as she got older was that we had to use a fine granular litter or it would hurt her paws to scratch and dig.  Also, cold surfaces (tile floors in winter) weren't as comfortable for her to walk on and she always preferred walking on carpet and rugs more than bare floors.  I didn't notice any specific arthritis problems with her paws, but we put her on Cosequin when she was about 10 due to arthritis in her hips.  I think feeding her a high quality food and keeping her overall health as good as possible will go a long way for your kitty.
 

specklebang

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One of my "cat family" friends has 2 declawed cats. She's had Molly for over a decade and that cat is healthier than I am. Her other declaw was a rescue that's been there for 3 years. Again, no health problems.

I'm personally very against declawing but I can't say that either of my experiences with previously declawed cats indicates any problems. They use Fresh Step litter and it seems to be fine.
 
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