This procedure is primitive & barbaric!! I have seen these poor animals before & after the surgery & it is sad. People who care more about thier couch? Doctors who care more about the money than the health benefits? (just as bad as human healthcare) Did you know they not only have to take the claw & nail bed but also the first knuckle? Cats walk on their toes but [because of this procedure] are forced 2 walk in an unnatural way; the claws are also important 2 the grooming process. Risks?Post-surgery  infection, not making it through anesthesia, arthritis, back/joint/foot problems-lets not forget the PAIN of the procedure!!
Alternatives: scratching post-they are cats, it's what they do!!
soft paws [nail caps], couch protectors, the list goes on.
Some doctors are not honest with owners as 2 the severity of this procedure, it is our job 2 be the voice of the animals!!
It is illegal in many other countries as it should be here. Please pass this on.