If you are wondering if you should declaw your cat there are many things that you should consider.
What was once a procedure that was routinely done, now people are much more aware of physical consequences for the cat.
When you are declawing a cat you are essentially moving removing the last bone in each of your cat's fingers.
It is not simply just removing the nail itself.
Under skilled hands this procedure can be done quickly and with few complications.
However pain medication is needed for the first couple days to help your cat recover.
Some of the more serious complications that could, happen although they are rare include bleeding and infection.
Also some cats have long-term complications where they are unable to walk on their feet normally, again this is very rare.
If you're thinking of alternatives to decline your cat there are several to try.
First you could simply buy some scratching posts and train your cats to use those.
There is also a product out there called Soft Paws and Soft Claws.
They are essentially plastic covers that go over each of your cats nails.
This is not a permanent solution as these need to be reapplied every month, and it is not an easy thing to do.
One other alternative to try for your cat is to put furniture guards on the corner of your furniture where your cat scratches the most.
If you are thinking about declawing your cat think it over thoroughly and have a discussion with your veterinarian.
Despite what some animal extremists might say there is no right or wrong answer and you are not a horrible person if you choose to do it to your cat.
It is your cat and you have the right choose your cat's medical treatments.