Unveiling the Purpose and Care of Dewclaws in Dogs and Cats
Features Editor: Ravi Teja Mandapaka
Introduction:
Dewclaws are those curious, thumb-like toes on your dog's or cat's paws that have left many pet owners wondering about their significance. Do these unique appendages serve a purpose, or are they merely evolutionary remnants? In this article, we'll delve into the world of dewclaws to explore their anatomy, functions, and whether they should be removed.
Understanding Dewclaws:
Dewclaws are non-weight-bearing toes on the inner side of an animal's paws, near the wrist or carpus area. Most dogs and cats are born with dewclaws on their front legs, which resemble human thumbs but are less functional. Some animals even have rear dewclaws on their hind legs. Dewclaws contain nerves, blood vessels, and a nail that grows like their other toenails. While most dewclaws are firmly attached to the portion and can be slightly moved, some rear dewclaws lack bones and appear to hang from the leg without any motor function.
The Purpose of Dewclaws:
While some may question the purpose of front dewclaws in modern dogs and cats, these unique digits can be beneficial in various ways. Dewclaws aid in digging, climbing, and gripping objects or prey. When dogs run, their dewclaws contact the ground, helping stabilize the carpus. Observing a dog or cat handling a toy or treat, you may notice how they use their dewclaws to steady the object.
On the other hand, rear dewclaws are considered vestigial structures and serve no functional purpose for dogs and cats. Certain breeds, like the Great Pyrenees and Beauceron, are born with rear dewclaws due to a genetic trait. Polydactyl cats may also have extra dewclaws.
Should Dewclaws Be Removed?
In some cases, dog breeders remove dewclaws and dock tails in puppies at around 5-7 days old, believing that dewclaws serve no purpose and could be prone to injury. It is also done to achieve a neater appearance for dog shows and adhere to breed standards. However, many veterinarians are moving away from this practice and prefer to leave dewclaws intact, recognizing their potential value. If your dog has already had its dewclaws removed, it won't significantly limit them.
For dogs with detached dewclaws, removal may be considered during spay or neuter surgery to prevent potential injuries. Detached dewclaws are more susceptible to getting caught on objects and causing harm due to their lack of motor function.
In contrast, cat dewclaw removal typically occurs as part of a complete declawing procedure. However, declawing is a significant and controversial surgery, and many experts now recommend more humane alternatives.
Dewclaw Problems in Dogs and Cats:
While dewclaws generally don't cause issues, some common problems may arise. Dewclaws may grow too long and curve, potentially growing into the skin of the paw pad, leading to pain, inflammation, and infection. Dewclaws can also become entangled with rocks, plants, or bedding, especially if the nails are too long, which is more common in dogs. This may result in torn nails or even fractured toes. Detached dewclaws are more susceptible to snagging and causing injuries due to their free-hanging nature.
To prevent dewclaw problems, it's crucial to check and trim your pet's nails regularly. Familiarize yourself with how to trim dog and cat nails, ensuring your pet's nail health. If you have concerns about your pet's dewclaws, consult your veterinarian.
Conclusion:
Dewclaws, though not essential, serve various functions in dogs and cats. While front dewclaws offer stability during activities, rear dewclaws are vestigial structures. The debate over dewclaw removal continues, with many experts favoring their preservation. To keep your pets' dewclaws healthy, stay vigilant with regular nail maintenance and consult your veterinarian when necessary.
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About Author
Ravi Teja Mandapaka is a multifaceted scholar, poet, and passionate advocate for animals. From English literature to agricultural sciences, from field hockey to music and the arts, Ravi's diverse interests converge in his unwavering commitment to animal welfare. He believes in a journey where compassion meets creativity, and academia blends with advocacy.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravimandapaka/
@RaviTMandapaka [aka Twitter]
