Cats use their claws for many purposes including self defense, to climb and to groom themselves. The reason why many cats are sadly being declawed is because of scratching furniture. Scratching however is as much an instinct in cats as sniffing is in dogs. Cats scratch for many reasons including sharpening their claws, marking territory and to stretch and play. By declawing cats, we are taking away many things from them, most noticeably their ability to protect themselves. Sadly, many vets will declaw cats without presenting alternatives that are much more human to cat owners. There are so many alternatives to declawing cats that it's truly sad how many people don't try every alternative before mutilating their cats.
Instead of declawing here are some humane options:
Offer your cat a STABLE scratching post. Cats will not want to scratch an insecure post. Also, keep in mind the more scratching posts your cat has nearby, the less likely they will be inclined to scratch your furniture. Cover the areas of your furniture with aluminum foil, plastic, or double sided tape-they will not enjoy the feeling of these things. Offer your cat plenty of toys and entertainment. The time they play with you and with toys is time that is not spent scratching your furniture. Trim your cat nails regularly. Pet and groom your cat to make it a routine so they will be used to handling. If you're hell bent on declawing it should be a last resort. Many countries have already prohibited declawing as they recognize it as inhumane and only do it in extreme cases and not for owner's convenience. It's sad that the United States are so behind when it comes to stopping cruel practices to animals. The countries who have prohibited declawing include- England, Scotland, Wales, Italy, France, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, Netehrlands, Ireland, Denmark, Finland, Slovenia, Portugal, Belgium, Spain, Brazil, Australia, and New Zealand. When will the United States follow suit? It's entirely up to you.
