Outlawed in some countries due to its brutality, declawing is an extremely painful procedure which requires weeks of healing. This surgery cuts off each of the last digits of the cat's paws, leaving it defenseless should it find its way outside.
Instead of declawing, supply your cat or kitten with a sturdy cat tree and give him or her praise and rewards for using it. A squirt from a spray bottle or a shake from a can filled with coins will discourage your cat from scratching the furniture. Cats scratch to maintain their nails, and you can help by regularly trimming their nails. Ask your vet for instructions.
An alternative to declawing is Soft Paws nail covers, which are available from your local veterinarian.
Remember, your cat is trainable and there are alternatives to declawing!
