Surgical lasers have been used for several years at veterinary colleges, but just recently has this technology become an affordable option for veterinary hospitals to offer to clients. However, a surgical laser can offer several advantages to a scalpel. As it cuts, the laser automatically seals small blood vessels and nerve endings around the cut, which means less bleeding and less pain. Patients can thus experience a quicker return to their normal activities. It's best to declaw cats at a young age, about two to five months old.
Younger cats tend to recover more quickly and adapt more easily to the loss of their claws.
Many veterinarians discourage declawing in older cats because these felines will often experience prolonged and recurrent pain. Most declawed cats will resume normal activities, including performing scratching motions. With rear claws intact, cats can still climb small trees, hunt and even defend themselves when necessary. Flexor tendonectomy is another surgical procedure you may choose. A tendonectomy leaves the claws intact but prevents cats from extending them.