In the classic Dr. Seuss tale “The Lorax,” the Lorax spoke for the trees. Today, I speak for the cats about an injustice as rotten as the clear cutting of Truffula trees — the practice of declawing cats. Declawing is the simple, painless removal of a cat’s claws, right? Like a heavy-duty manicure, perhaps? Actually, it’s much worse.
Declawing is an inhumane surgery. The Humane Society of the United States agrees, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) agrees, even the dogs at my house agree. The procedure involves not just removing a nail or claw but actually amputating the last bone in each of a cat’s toes. It hurts to even write that sentence. Luckily for me I’ve got all my toes and claws. I have enough issues as it is. Claws are one of our only defenses. I like my claws. They allow even this blind old cat to climb around like Spiderman.
One of the friends I met at the shelter this month is Firenze. Firenze arrived at the shelter not only without claws but the surgery had been done incorrectly. She was in pain and she was ticked off.
Cats that have been declawed are more likely to have behavior problems. Sorry Firenze, but it’s true. Cats that have been declawed are also more likely to have litter box issues. I’m not a feline psychologist, but if I were to analyze the situation, I would surmise that the cats are mad because they just had their toes cut off. This anger is manifested in bad behavior. Firenze displayed some of these issues but has been steadily improving. She is only 3 years old and would prefer to be the only cat in a house. How about giving this beautiful lady a second chance?
By the way, if you are having issues with your cat scratching things in your house, there are solutions other than declawing. There are nail covers, nails can be trimmed, and we like fun toys we are allowed to scratch. Do a little research before chopping off any toes.
Another cat I would keep an eye on is Queenie. Queenie loves to play. If you are looking for a cat who does more than lie by the fireplace and eat, Queenie is your cat. For the record, there is nothing wrong with just lying by the fireplace and eating.
Dell is another friend we enjoyed on our visit. He reminded us of a Siberian tiger. If you are looking for a new friend, visit the shelter or hstt.org.
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