Posted on: Sunday, December 4, 2005
Removing claws last resort for scratching
Hawaiian Humane Society
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Rub catnip on a sisal-wrapped scratching post to catch Kitty’s
interest; reward her with a treat or petting when she uses the post.
Hawaiian Humane Society
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CLAWLESS KITTIES Q. Are declawed cats available for adoption? A. Declawed cats are occasionally available for adoption. If you are interested in adopting a cat that's already declawed, visit the society to speak with an adoption counselor. To view some current pets, go to www.hawaiianhumane.org. |
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JACK
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SHADOW
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Claws are cats' all-purpose tools, to climb, mark their territory, hunt and defend themselves. Outdoor cats do all that while prowling around, but indoor cats must find other outlets — sometimes resorting to clawing furniture or curtains.
That's when some cat owners consider declawing — a topic that can stir passionate debate. Studies have not shown that declawing has a negative effect. But some people believe it is inhumane and argue that it may result in psychological problems. And don't forget that clawing makes cats feel good.
If you're considering declawing your kitty, think about humane alternatives first. Here are some options:
If your cat scratches areas in your home that you're OK with, keep treats handy so that you can praise and reward immediately when she's in the right place.
Store-bought scratching surfaces for your cat may require trial and error. While some favor vertical, carpeted scratching posts, others may prefer horizontal options such as the catnip-sprinkled corrugated cardboard pads available at pet-supply stores.
Nail coverings such as "Soft Paws" slip over trimmed claws and stay in place with a nontoxic adhesive. These little sheaths provide a blunt nail tip to limit damage by scratching. The coverings must be removed monthly, the nails trimmed and new coverings applied. Take your cat to your veterinarian to apply the sheaths while you learn how to do it. The blunt tips are available in nail-polish colors.
Consult your veterinarian, a pet behaviorist or a good cat book for information on how to train your cat to scratch appropriately. Combine this training with trimmed nails and treats.
If your cat still attacks your sofa, try affixing double-stick tape to the upholstery, or try a product such as "Ssscat," available at the humane society. Ssscat is a can of compressed air fitted with a motion sensor. Place the can — fitted with a motion sensor — near the sofa. When the sensor detects the cat, Ssscat emits a warning sound, then a burst of air to discourage your cat from returning to that area. It is harmless, odorless and quickly teaches cats to avoid curtains, sofas and other areas.
Trimming your cat's nails also can reduce scratching. Just as with our own fingernails, cat-claw trimming, on all four paws, should be performed regularly. Wrap your cat gently in a towel, speak sweetly and pull each paw out to trim the nails. Use your own nail clippers or one from the pet store. Avoid clipping into the pink area on the nail, which contains the blood vessels and nerve. You can end your grooming session on a positive note by rewarding your cat with his favorite treat.
If all else fails, consider declaw surgery. With no adequate defense, declawed cats must be kept indoors. It's best to declaw cats at a young age, about 2 to 5 months old. Younger cats tend to recover more quickly.
The veterinarian surgically removes the end section of the last bone, along with the nail, preventing it from growing back. Since the back feet are rarely used for scratching, usually only the front paws are declawed. Declawing is performed while the cat is under general anesthesia and may require hospitalization for a day or two.
Talk to professionals and other cat owners about the pros and cons of declawing.
ADOPTABLES
JACK
Tag No. 79164. He's everything you want in a cat — playful, friendly and handsome. At a year old, Jack is becoming accustomed to wearing the cat walking jacket so he can walk safely outdoors on a leash. How cool is that?
SHADOW
Tag No. 79309. Look for the perky ears atop a lanky body and you've found Shadow, a 3-year-old whippet/basenji mix. Noted by his trainers as being "very well-behaved," this medium-small dog is neutered and ready for a new home today.
These animals already may have found homes. The Hawaiian Humane Society and McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Ave. are open 7 days a week. For hours, directions, special events and to see more pets available for adoption, visit www .hawaiianhumane.org or call 946-2187. Call immediately to report lost and found animals.
