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To DeClaw or Not? What's a Cat Owner To Do?

Cat owners face a decision with their furry friends.

I'm not sure if it were their trusting, golden eyes or the sweet little mews they gave us when we walked into the room and interrupted their nap. One thing for sure, what started out as a temporary home for four small kittens is now the permanent home for two of them.

Spaying them was a "no-brainer" decision, but these adorable critters left us wondering, should we declaw them or not?

We already have two cats that are declawed and one that is not. It had been nearly 10 years since we had to make the choice. When the kittens joined us, I automatically thought, "Absolutely, we declaw." Now, I'm not so certain.

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With so much information available about the subject online, I decided to inquire further on the procedure. The wealth of answers left me even more confused. I began to realize that opinions on this decision were as diverse and passionate as most any other ethical debate.

I was very surprised; however, to find out the procedure is much more than a simple "toe nail trim". The Humane Society explains the procedure as an amputation of the first knuckle of the cat.  A whole gamut of risks can arise in the cat's health and behavior. These can include decreased willingness to use the litter box, increased biting (as a defense), arthritis, and of course infection from the surgery. 

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Many shelters and adoption centers will insist that owners do not declaw their new pet. Some centers go so far as to have the adopters sign a legal contract, punishable with surrender of the animal, and/or a lawsuit.

There are several reasons why people declaw their cats. These include protection of furniture, ease from having to train their animal to use a scratching post, and the idea that it is healthier for the family. True, cat scratches can lead to infection, but it's less likely to infect than a cat bite. Currently, there are no major health organizations promoting the declawing of cats. 

Supporters feel that owners will abandon cats if the scratching becomes excessive, leaving it to fend for itself as a stray or going to a shelter already filled to capacity. However, Opponents of the procedure feel that if cats get out with no means to defend themselves, they will be injured or killed.

Owners are encouraged to talk to their vet about their choices and options. An ethical veterinarian will take the time to educate owners on the procedure as well as offer options and training tips, instead of the surgery.

As for our family, we decided against declawing. Instead, I'm educating my kids on how to train the cats to use the scratching post. We're playing and interacting with all of our cats to encourage stimulation. We're learning to recognize the cues they have when they want to be left alone. (Avoiding stresses that can cause scratching in anger.)

It's working for our family, and we're having a lot of fun with our furry little felines.

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