subject: Save Your Furniture But Don't Declaw Your Cat [print this page] One of the largest negatives to being a cat owner is the damage they can do to furniture and drapes. Cats really like to climb and they will need to scratch. Scratching serves not only to maintain kitty's claws in great condition, it also provides exercise for his forelegs.
If you have experienced the anger and frustration of arriving home to discover a ruined sofa or wing back chair, you've in all probability been tempted to think about having your feline buddy declawed. Stop! Declawing the cat is cruel for several reasons. You see, unlike most animals, cats walk on their toes, not the soles of their feet. A cat's claws are really joined to the last bone of its toe.
What this means is that when you eliminate your small friend's claws, you are also removing the last bone and joint in each and every one of its toes. It would be just like amputating the last bone in each one of your fingers! It can make walking challenging and it takes away his natural defense if he gets himself out-of-doors. There is also possibility of nerve damage, extreme pain and infection.
Declawed cats in many instances become aggressive, fearful or distant. Actually, declawing is illegal in a number of nations. But there's great news! There's a all-natural and humane way to save your furniture, your drapes and your sanity.
Offer your feline companion with a cat tree or condo. Make it sturdy and tall enough to give your small pal a place to climb and look down on his environment. Include a scratching post of sisal rope or some similar material. Cats climb and scratch naturally. Give kitty a place to do it and you'll both be happier.
