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Ways to prevent cat-scratching damage to your home
Frequently people think that declawing
is the only way to prevent scratching damage -
we do not agree.
Onychectomy --
the traditional method of declawing --
is a surgery where the nail and end toe bone
of each digit are amputated.
It should be done only as a last resort --
when the alternative would be to give up the cat --
or if the guardian would be at medical risk if the cat scratched him.
If you declaw your cat,
remove only the front claws --
and, only on kittens or very young cats --
the older and heavier the cat,
the more painful the procedure.
If you don't declaw your cat --
there are things you can do to control scratching
that are as (or more) effective.
Here are a few:
1. Play safely with your cat.
2. Provide A Scratching Post.
If you have craft skills you may be able
to make your own cat tree using 4x4s and carpet remnants.
If not, pet stores and web sites offer many varieties.
Some include perches for the cat to sit or sleep on.
To train a cat to use a scratching post
spray or sprinkle it with catnip.
To work effectively,
a vertical scratching post should be tall enough
to allow the cat to stretch its entire body while scratching --
a minimum of 30' high.
It also needs to be heavy enough to support his weight.
You may need different types of scratching posts and materials
to satisfy different scratching needs.
3. Trim The Claws. Most scratching damage comes from sharp claws -- the easiest way to blunt them is to keep them trimmed. This is a quick, simple procedure that doesn't hurt. Have your veterinarian show you how it's done -- or follow the simple directions included in this brochure. 4. Apply Nail Caps. Rounded vinyl caps can be glued on to your cat's claws. They last for several weeks and don't interfere with the normal extension and retraction of claws. They're relatively inexpensive but may need to be professionally applied. All cats -- even those without claws -- need places to scratch -- if not, your home may still sustain damage (from soiling if not from shredding). Never punish your cat for scratching inappropriately -- as this will make the cat fearful of you -- and it won't change the behavior. Instead, provide him with good scratching options -- ones that both you and he can be happy with.
The easiest way to significantly reduce scratching damage
is to regularly trim your cats' claws --
every few weeks --
with toenail clippers or cat nail trimmers (available at pet stores).
Never use regular scissors.
Using the diagram for guidance,
follow these steps to ensure a proper and painless kitty pedicure:
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