Comparison of effects of elective tenectomy or onychectomy in cats.

OBJECTIVE

To compare short- and long-term complications after tenectomy of the deep digital flexor tendons or onychectomy and owner satisfaction with these surgical procedures.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

ANIMALS

20 cats undergoing tenectomy and 18 cats undergoing onychectomy.

PROCEDURE

Cats undergoing tenectomy or onychectomy were monitored for a minimum of 5 months to enable comparison of type and frequency of complications. Owner satisfaction was also assessed.

RESULTS

Cats undergoing tenectomy had significantly lower pain scores 24 hours after surgery, compared with those undergoing onychectomy. Type and frequency of other complications did not differ between procedures. Owners appeared to be less satisfied with the tenectomy procedure than with the onychectomy procedure, although scores for satisfaction with each procedure were not significantly different.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Owners should be aware of the high complication rate for both procedures and of the need for constant trimming of claws of cats that have undergone tenectomy.