De-clawing the cats in my house has always been a given. Since the first cats we had as kids when I was 3, it’s been SOP to have that done. I never gave it a second thought, and never paid much heed to the arguments against it.
Then recently here, I read a couple threads on the matter, and felt my ignorance being fought.
So recently, it got to be time to have Cuervo fixed, and I asked the Bus Wife how she felt about NOT getting him de-clawed. Now keep in mind, we just moved into a new house in August and have tons of new furniture around the place, including a barge-sized sectional that cost a few week’s salary.
But he’s got a scratching post he loves and some toys, and has never used his claws on any furniture, only on me when we play rough.
Surprisingly - she agreed.
I initially made the appointment to have him neutered and de-clawed. Took him on the day to see Dr. Heather, and in the room I told her we changed our minds and we’re not de-clawing him. She said oh good, because she’s not a fan of doing that.
So that was a week ago, and he’s a whole different cat without those nasty hormones affecting him. He’s still playful and funny, and not too bright yet, but he’s not “on edge” all the time. he’s a lot calmer, and will fall asleep on a lap now - though still only MY lap.
And he hasn’t done a single destructive or aggressive thing with the claws - well aside from defending himself against the Evil Fat Scarlett. She’s none too pleased he can scratch in defemse, but then she’s got 10 pounds on him, so too bad for her.
So, on behalf of you Dopers who convinced me NOT to de-claw the little booger, thank you from the bottom of his little orange, furry heart.