by Natara Happi

Created on: June 13, 2010

The previous patient comes out into the waiting room, still shaking from what had just happened. Her owner is looking quite satisfied and proud. It's your turn now. You are taken into the vet's office and set down on a strange table, in an odd room. The vet coos at you for a little bit, before leaning close and saying, "Don't worry, we're just going to rip out your nails, that's all." This is not, by any means, a fantasy or fake scenario. This is what many cats face at that one terrible trip to the vet - having nails ripped out. Not only that, but de clawing requires part of their toe bone to be cut off with the claw. Ouch!

Claws are a natural part of the cat's body, and let's face it, nothing will always go perfectly well with the typical house cat. If you know the saying 'curiosity killed the cat', you know that your feline friend might sneak a peek outdoors. If it's at nighttime and your friendly cat encounters a not-so-friendly raccoon, what does it have left to defend itself? Its teeth, maybe, but it would need to get very close to do that, putting itself in possible danger.

If you're still not getting the idea, think of it this way. De-clawing a cat because the tiny possibility it could scratch you would be like you having to visit the doctors at a certain age and having your fingernails permanently ripped out. You know, in case you accidentally scratched someone. A little ridiculous and quite unnecessary.

De clawing is extremely painful for the cat because the bone is partially being removed. It's actually illegal in multiple countries. There are better 'claw maintenance' practices out there, some of which include;

Scratching Posts
Your cat can get a bit of exercise and keep its claws in shape by using a scratching post. If you set it out in their room, they will no doubt explore it and eventually start using it. No bones harmed!

Nail Clippers
People clip their nails. Why can't you take some time out of your day to do it for your cat? As long as you're careful and don't cut too far, this is another good method of maintenance.

Soft Paws
Think of Soft Paws as a sort of manicure for cats. Soft Paws are a brand of soft and comfortable nail caps to prevent scratching without the cat really knowing they have them on. The cat can have its claws without causing harm to people or furniture. Plus, they come in a lot of funky colors - your cat will be quite famous among its friends!

If you own a cat and are thinking of de clawing it, think again! It's painful, involves removing part of a bone, and has so many cheaper, safer and fairer alternatives! It's a win win situation for you and your pet.

((Soft Paws website is at www.softpaws.com))

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