It's hard to believe that anyone would use such trivial reasons to rationalize doing this to a beloved pet. It's even harder to believe that veterinarians agree to perform the surgery, knowing that it will result in lifelong disability. But anyone who has had surgery can tell you that once the anesthetic wears off, the affected parts hurt for weeks, especially when you have to walk on them. Claws, of course, are a cat's first means of defense. They help ward off attackers and enable the cat to climb out of danger.
Cats also use their claws to catch prey and to maintain their balance on tricky surfaces.
Although a declawed cat can still function well in the house, it is at a serious disadvantage outdoors. Without the ability to grasp with its claws, its balance and agility are permanently impaired, and it becomes more prone to fall. The effect is cumulative. Over the years, the muscles of the legs, shoulders and back weaken, further handicapping the animal. In addition, the cat feels defenseless and lives in a constant state of stress, making it more susceptible to physical and mental disorders.