How Long Should a Cat Use Paper Litter After Declaw Surgery

Declaw surgery, also called onychectomy, is a major procedure that removes the last bone of each toe on a cat’s front paws.

After this surgery, your cat’s paws are tender and sensitive, and the wrong type of litter can cause pain, infection, or delayed healing. That’s why many veterinarians recommend switching to paper litter during recovery.

But how long should your cat use it? Let’s go through everything you need to know about paper litter use after declaw surgery and when it’s safe to switch back.

Why Paper Litter Is Recommended After Declaw Surgery

After declaw surgery, open surgical sites are left where your cat’s claws used to be. Traditional clay or clumping litter can get trapped in these small wounds and cause:

• Infections: Small particles can enter the incision, increasing the risk of bacterial growth.

• Pain and irritation: Hard or dusty litter may rub against healing tissue.

• Delayed healing: Any irritation or contamination can slow down the recovery process.

Paper litter is much softer and dust-free, reducing irritation and keeping your cat’s paws cleaner. It also absorbs moisture well, making it a safer short-term alternative.

How Long Should a Cat Use Paper Litter After Declaw Surgery

Most veterinarians recommend using paper litter for at least 10 to 14 days after declaw surgery. This period allows the surgical wounds to close properly and reduces the risk of complications. However, the exact duration can vary depending on your cat’s healing progress and your vet’s advice.

• Days 1–7: Only paper litter should be used. Your cat’s paws are most sensitive during this phase.

• Days 8–14: Continue using paper litter if your cat still shows signs of tenderness or if your vet hasn’t cleared them yet.

• After 14 days: If healing looks normal—no swelling, bleeding, or limping—you can gradually reintroduce your cat’s regular litter over the next few days.

Always follow your vet’s specific timeline since some cats may need a bit longer, especially older cats or those with slower healing.

How to Transition Back to Regular Litter Safely

When your vet gives you the green light, you can start reintroducing your cat’s normal litter gradually. A sudden switch can confuse or stress your cat, so go step by step:

• Step 1: Mix 25% of the regular litter with 75% paper litter for 2–3 days.

• Step 2: Increase to 50/50 for another 2–3 days.

• Step 3: Move to 75% regular litter and 25% paper litter.

• Step 4: After about a week, you can use the full amount of your cat’s regular litter.

This slow change helps your cat adjust and prevents irritation if their paws are still slightly tender.

Signs That Your Cat’s Paws Aren’t Ready Yet

Before switching back to normal litter, check your cat’s paws daily. Signs that your cat may need to stay on paper litter longer include:

• Redness or swelling around the toes

• Limping or avoiding the litter box

• Excessive licking or biting at the paws

• Bleeding or discharge from incision sites

If you notice any of these, keep using paper litter and call your vet for a recheck. It’s always safer to wait a few extra days than to risk infection or reopening of the surgical site.

Tips to Help Your Cat Heal Faster After Declaw Surgery

Recovery doesn’t just depend on litter—it also depends on your care. Here are some helpful tips:

• Keep your cat indoors: Outdoor bacteria and dirt can enter the healing wounds.

• Use a low-entry litter box: Avoid making your cat jump or climb during recovery.

• Provide soft bedding: Soft blankets reduce pressure on their paws.

• Limit activity: No running or jumping for at least 10–14 days.

• Follow vet instructions: Give pain medication or antibiotics exactly as prescribed.

The calmer and cleaner the environment, the smoother your cat’s recovery will be.

When to Contact Your Veterinarian

Even with proper care, complications can occur. Call your vet immediately if you see:

• Continuous bleeding

• Signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus, or foul odor)

• Reluctance to walk or eat

• Signs of severe pain despite medication

Your vet may examine the paws, clean the wounds, or prescribe antibiotics if needed.

Conclusion

In general, your cat should use paper litter for at least 10 to 14 days after declaw surgery. The goal is to protect the surgical sites until they’re fully healed and free of pain or swelling.

Always consult your veterinarian before returning to regular litter, and remember that every cat heals differently. With gentle care, patience, and attention, your cat’s paws will recover safely and comfortably.

FAQs

How long does it take for a cat’s paws to heal after declaw surgery?

Most cats heal within two to three weeks. During this time, it’s important to use paper litter, limit activity, and follow your vet’s post-surgery care instructions to avoid infection or delayed healing.

Can I use shredded newspaper instead of commercial paper litter?

Yes, shredded newspaper can be used as an alternative. It’s soft and doesn’t stick to wounds. However, commercial paper litter absorbs moisture and controls odor better, making it more comfortable for both you and your cat.

When can I let my cat go outside after declaw surgery?

It’s best to keep your cat indoors permanently after declawing. Outdoor environments expose them to dirt, infection, and dangers they can’t defend against without claws.

Is clumping litter safe after declaw surgery?

No, clumping litter should be avoided during recovery. The dust and small particles can enter healing wounds and cause infections. Wait at least two weeks before considering it again, and only after vet approval.

Why does my cat limp even after two weeks post-surgery?

Mild limping may persist for a few days as your cat adjusts to walking without claws. If the limping continues beyond two weeks or worsens, contact your vet. It could indicate infection, swelling, or delayed healing.