ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Onychectomy

Onychectomy is a big word that means something that some people do to cats. You know how cats have little hooks on the ends of their paw toes? Those hooks are called claws. Sometimes people think that the claws can be a problem, like when the cat scratches furniture or hurts someone by accident. So they might decide to take the claws away.

But taking away claws isn't like taking away a toy or a treat. It's a big and painful surgery that involves cutting off the end of each toe where the claw grows. This can be really hard on the cat's body, and it can cause them to have trouble walking or balancing. It can also be hard on their feelings, because scratching is a natural and important behavior for cats.

So even though some people might think onychectomy is a good idea, it's important to remember that it's a serious and irreversible thing that affects the cat's wellbeing in many ways. It's best to talk to a veterinarian about other options for keeping cats and furniture safe without hurting the cat.