Please Don't Declaw Me!

If you are considering declawing your cat, please read this first!

Although it appears to be justifiable by thinking that it is completely humane, you are sadly mistaken. Here's what happens: According to Veterinarian, Dr. Christianne Schelling, declawing is "not like a manicure...it is a serious surgery." The toenail is actually attached to the bone, and to remove it, part of the bone must be removed with it. So it is actually an "amputation of the last joint of your cat's "toes"". Hence, you can see why it is a painful surgery with a painful recovery, especially since your cat has to use his feet to walk, climb, jump, etc.

Your cat's body is perfectly designed in nature to utilize everything he/she was born with, and that includes his/her feet, toes and claws. Amputating by way of declawing is not only cruel and painful, but it has lasting effects on your cat, taking away his/her natural means of defense, leaving them exposed and vulnerable to predators and even other cats who have their claws. Many people have also admitted that after declawing their cats, they acted out by biting and even hiding. Understandable as it is all they are left with for defending themselves. It can be as drastic as changing your cat's personality completely. When she once was carefree and playful, she is now inhibited and aggressive.

So please think twice before declawing your cat for the simple convenience of not having your furniture scratched a little. There are humane options such as soft paws that can be implemented in place of such a painful procedure.

Finally, if you are not yet convinced that it is NOT an option for your cat, ask yourself why other countries have outlawed it and made it illegal.