This is actually a bit of a controversial issue within the veterinary community. Many veterinarians feel that declawing a young kitten won’t change his personality. The procedure is least traumatic when performed on young animals, because they’re smaller and they have less weight to carry on their feet after surgery. They’ll experience less pain and heal more quickly than full-grown animals, and should therefore be less affected by the surgery. Still, many feel that even adult cats can be declawed without a permanent change in personality.

There are some veterinary professionals who feel that declawing may change a cat’s personality and behavior, however. They argue that declawed felines may feel defenseless and may be more likely to mark (urinate on) their territory, avoid contact with others or become aggressive, and change their pattern of vocalization (growling, hissing, or increased crying).

The issue of declawing remains controversial. The American Animal Hospital Association is opposed to the declawing of domestic cats unless all other attempts have been made to prevent the cat from using its claws destructively or when clawing presents a significant health risk for people within the household. For more information, consult your veterinarian.