Animal Humane Society opposes the declawing of cats.

Scratching is a normal and necessary behavior. The goal is not to eliminate the behavior but to manage it in the safest and least destructive way possible.

Steps other than declawing can be taken to reduce destructive scratching.

• Provide a scratching post
• Frequent nail trims
• Positive redirection
• Make furniture and other items undesirable
• Synthetic nail caps

When destructive behavior cannot be modified, Animal Humane Society believes that declawing, as a last resort, is preferable to abandonment, euthanasia or relinquishing ownership of a cat. We advocate that people make an informed decision about declawing in consultation with their veterinarian.