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Why Cats Scratch For Exercise To mark territory visually To mark territory with their scent To shed the outer layer of the claw (sheath)
Keep in mind.... Cats need to claw Cats are not being vindictive when they ruin your furniture By habit they will return to the same spot they've clawed before Clawing is often done when a cat first awakens from sleep Cats have individual tastes for the type of surface they prefer Declawed cats will continue to act out clawing and will deposit their scent (and dirt) in their favorite spot
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 Living with Claws Trimming Cat Claws Discussion -- give us your take on the subject Product review The Right Scratching Post
Are you planning to have your kitten or adult cat declawed?
Most cats will outgrow that goofy kitten stage and give up their indiscriminate attacks on furniture. They can be trained/encouraged to use a scratching post. Double stick tape (purchased at the hardware store) can be put on furniture corners since the cats do not like to touch it - they will then leave that spot alone.
Good news for people who are opposed to declawing.
Tenectomy or Tendonectomy This is a surgical procedure that entails shaving of the fur between the large pad of the foot and each toe; this is done on the bottom of the foot. A small incision is made and a small portion of the tendon that goes to each toe is removed. This will prevent the cat from putting their claws into anything. No sutures are required. The risk of infection is lessened because of the tiny incision site. Recovery is rapid and pain is much less since there has been no removal of bone.
It will be necessary for you to continue to clip your cats claws -- perhaps 4 times a year. They will now be unable to "dig" their claws into furniture, screens, oriental carpets, etc. thus preventing any damage to your furniture. It is recommended that you have this done when your kitten is spayed/neutered since they will only have to be anesthetized once. The cost is about $15 higher than declawing since it is a more time consuming surgery - but you have only spent perhaps $1.00 more per year of your cat's life and have chosen a much more humane procedure!
Please talk to your veterinarian about this alternative!!
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(New & Updated Links for 1999) Here are some resources to research this important issue in-depth:
HomeArts: Ask the Vet -- My Cat's Scratching the Furniture! Cat Care Central - Declawing Pros and Cons
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Some adult cats can have a very difficult time after they are declawed. Since declawing is the removal of one knuckle on each toe, it is a painful procedure. There is always a risk of infection after this kind of surgery. Some cats will experience difficulties in balance (older cats usually) because they are missing part of the foot now. You may see a change in personality. There is also a possibility of muscle wasting in later years. 