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  • Feline Declaw Estimates

Declaw Estimates

Surgical Estimate and Understanding Feline Declawing (Onychectomy)

Feline declawing, medically known as onychectomy, is a surgical procedure that involves removing a cat’s claws along with the last bone of each toe. This procedure is often performed to prevent damage to furniture or to protect owners with health conditions that could be compromised by a cat scratch.

There is ongoing debate about the ethics of declawing, with some considering it inhumane. If not performed correctly, I agree with that perspective. My professional preference is not to declaw cats, like my stance against cosmetic ear cropping for show; but since I do find more clients willing to keep cats if declawed and there are more health concerns in the family I will perform the procedure.  It has been suggested that declawed cats are more commonly found in shelters; however, my extensive experience suggests the opposite—cats with claws are often the last to be adopted.

Declawed cats should be kept indoors, as removing their claws limits their ability to defend themselves. During your visit, our doctors will discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and alternative options to declawing. If you choose to proceed, rest assured that we prioritize thorough client education and ensure the highest level of comfort for your cat during and after surgery. All declawed cats remain under our care for a minimum of 2-3 days to monitor initial healing. We also provide detailed discharge instructions and home pain medication to keep your pet comfortable and to support you through the remainder of the recovery process.

Fee

  • Chemistry and Hematology: $195-$285
  • ProBNP (feline): $50.00
  • FeLV/FIV (recommended for feline): $75

Lab work is performed before scheduling the procedure. Please refer to the feline lab work fees included in the spay/neuter/dental resource area.

Front Paw Declaw – approximately $900-$1100 after lab work 

Four Paw Declaw – approximately $1400- $1650 after lab work

The above variations are based on the size of the patient, anesthetic combinations and pain medications selected in addition to the number of days admitted to the hospital. This does not include medications dispensed for post op at home care.

What is not included in the above prices:

  • Antibiotic and pain injections are administered and determined on an individual basis by the doctor.
  • Additional fees are associated with these injections and are based on the weight of your pet the day of the scheduled procedure.

 ADDITIONAL INFO

The prices provided on these pages are general estimates for the procedures. Antibiotic injection, pain management and take home medications to keep your pet comfortable are additional.

A comprehensive estimate can be provided during your examination once we better understand your pet’s specific requirements. While we strive to make our estimates as detailed as possible, we cannot guarantee them as unforeseen services may be necessary depending on your pet’s condition. 

If you have any questions about your respective estimate or have questions about financial options, please let us know!

Every pet is different – some are large, some are small, and others may have additional health concerns that need to be addressed before going under anesthesia. That is why we insist on a brief Pre-Surgical consultation before scheduling any surgery. This consult allows the veterinarian to screen for any issues, devise a plan to address them, and provide you with an updated treatment plan. We aim to avoid surprises during surgery, and we know you want clarity at checkout. The cost of the presurgical labwork can vary based on the age and health of the pet. 

To ensure the safety and well-being of your pet during surgery, we kindly ask that presurgical lab work be completed before the scheduled procedure. 

For routine procedures, scheduling requires a minimum deposit dependent on the procedure’s total cost. In some instances, deposits may necessitate at least half of the estimated cost. This deposit may be deducted from your final bill and is refundable if cancellation occurs at least 2 business days before the scheduled appointment. However, cancellations or rescheduling less than 2 business days prior to the original appointment may result in forfeiture of the deposit.