Through the long period of recuperation, the cat must learn to adjust to walking on the stub end of the digit and its feet. The cat must then undergo surgery again to remove the abnormal claws. The origin of many chronic physical ailments, including cystitis and skin disorders, can be traced to the stress period immediately following declawing. Besides the undesirable complications and aftereffects of the surgery, a declawed cat commits the owner to providing extra care and protection. A declawed cat must never be allowed outside because it cannot fight off other animals or escape pursuit by climbing trees, walls or fences.
Cat claws give sure footing and increase speed and the ability to make sharp turns.
They are also highly efficient climbing tools. Declawing greatly reduces a cat's mobility. It impairs balance, virtually eliminates climbing ability and leaves a cat almost defenseless if cornered. Even if the owner protects a cat from the harm by keeping it indoors, the cat may realize instinctively that it is vulnerable and become anxious or neurotic. It may be excessively shy, nervous or antagonistic to strangers.