The vet has asked you to prepare for an onychectomy on a cat. What kind of surgery is this?

Onychectomy refers to the surgical procedure commonly known as declawing in cats. This surgery involves the removal of the distal phalanx of each digit, effectively removing the claw as well as the last bone of the toe. It is often performed for behavioral reasons or to prevent damage to furniture and household items.

This procedure is particularly relevant in cats since their claws are sharp and can pose risks in households. It's important for veterinary technicians to understand the implications of declawing, including the potential for pain and behavioral changes, and to follow the veterinarian's pre-operative and post-operative instructions closely to ensure the best outcome for the animal.

The other options refer to different surgical procedures: spaying is a form of sterilization for female animals that involves removing the ovaries and usually the uterus; cesarean delivery is a surgical method to give birth when normal birth is not possible; and castration involves the removal of the testes in male animals. Each of these surgeries has its own indications and procedures, distinct from onychectomy.