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FosteringFelines’
Alternatives to Declawing

Note: Much of this information has been obtained and compiled from outside sources.

  1. Every cat, especially those that scratch furniture, should have their nails clipped weekly. If accustomed to the procedure, cats will tolerate having the curved part of their claws clipped. Find out how to clip nails properly, or consult your veterinarian for further questions.

  2. Place several tall, sturdy and heavy scratching posts sprinkled with catnip in your living room or other popular room of the house. Some cats are partial to sisal doormats or hang-able scratching posts. Find out how to build your own Cat Tree

  3. Make sure your cat has plenty of other toys than furniture and stairs to play with.

  4. When your cat begins to scratch on a piece of furniture, give him a firm warning such as "No, Kitty!" and then give him a quick squirt from a mister or water pistol. This should discourage him. Then call him to his scratching post with a food treat and praise him when he comes and uses the post. Some suggest that you “show” the cat how to use the post by placing his paws on the post if he doesn’t know how to do it independently. These types of methods may have to be done over and over until he understands.

  5. Apply double-faced tape to "problem areas" the cats are already clawing, i.e., your couch, under the bed, on chairs, etc. There's a ready-made product called Sticky Paws which are strips of double-faced sticky-tape. Cats hate sticky tape & won't claw anything Sticky Paws is applied to. They don't like how it feels. Hence it is one of the best behavior modification tools that works even when you are not home! This is a kind and gentle way to teach your feline friends what objects are NOT acceptable to scratch. Sticky Paws is available at most pet supply stores. You can also try aluminum foil, loosely woven fabric, blown-up baloons or clear acrylic panels from PurrfectPaw

  6. You can also apply perfume, citrusy spray or vinegar to problem areas as cats hate those scents.

  7. Use dulling nail caps such as softpaws that last 4-6 weeks and fall off by themselves.

  8. When selecting furniture, a closely woven fabric is the best. Cats find this type of fabric difficult to pierce with their claws. Some people chose to cover their couches with tasteful blankets or plastic coverings.

  9. Use a pheromone spray that reduces stress and destructive behaviors.