An Alternative to Declawing Your Cat Using Nail Caps

Disclaimer: I am not a health professional. Please seek the advice of your veterinarian before you change the diet, exercise program, or any other lifestyle adjustments of your pet.

For those of us who are cat lovers, but not impressed by the shredding talent they come by naturally, there is a painless solution for this issue. The solution provides comfort to both of you so that you can enjoy your home harmoniously, together. In my personal opinion, declawing is a painful, unnatural, and unnecessary procedure. We humans have socially accepted this torturous act in order to save our possessions.

Nail caps work wonders! I was told about this product in 2009 when I adopted my snow white kitty from my local animal shelter. I was concerned about my new furniture, and even though my husband made her a ‘kitty condo’ chock full of scratching opportunities, it wasn’t a guarantee my furniture would be safe.

It is completely natural for a cat to have the need to scratch. Many times scratching posts are helpful, however, they are not always successful in keeping kitty claws off of your favorite recliner or expensive oriental rug. If you agree that declawing is inhumane, or your cat is too old to be declawed, this product is worth a try.

Several companies make these nail caps in all sizes and colors. They are rubber or plastic tips that actually cover each of the cat’s claws, giving the claws a dull, soft edge. It doesn’t interfere with their urges to scratch. It just stops the cat from causing damage to items or people.

THIS ITEM IS FOR INDOOR CATS ONLY! Because cats use their claws in threatening situations, your cat will be at a disadvantage if he/she finds the need to defend himself/herself.

I have found it unnecessary to use the nail caps on the hind claws. However, I do trim them on a monthly basis. The front claws (including the thumb) need to be capped. There are several companies who sell this product, so be sure to read the directions entirely and discuss the idea with your veterinarian before you attempt to use the nail caps. It is also best to start early in the cat’s life so that it becomes “normal” to him/her.

Each claw needs to be trimmed before the cap is glued on. In order to clip the claws, push on the cat’s knuckle until the entire claw is exposed. Be very, very careful when trimming your kitty’s claws. Only clip the tip. Cats have a cuticle inside their claws and if it is clipped, it will be bleed and be extremely painful for Kitty. You can see the cuticle in good lighting if you look closely.

Once the claws are clipped, place the glue that comes with the product in the nail cap and place on the trimmed claw. Sometimes the cat will not approve of your attempt to cover his/her claws. The procedure may require two people, one to hold Kitty, and one to do the work. Personally, I have found that patience is a wonderful thing. I wait until my cats are asleep or cuddling in my lap. That is when I clip the claws, and let them go. Later, I place the glue in two nail caps and sneak up on Kitty, and apply both caps. You can glue from two to all ten caps at one time depending on the temperament of your cat.

The nail caps last approximately 4 weeks. As your cat's claws grow, the nail sheath will come off, bringing the nail cap with it. At that point, it is important to trim the nail and reapply a new nail cap, as needed. A cat will generally lose one or two caps at a time, so upkeep is much easier than the initial "manicure".

You will love the results, I assure you. The nail caps come in a variety of colors, and I have seen nail caps for dogs too! Visit the following hub to learn about how to toilet train your cat! It really works!

http://mmargie1966.hubpages.com/hub/No-More-Litter-Box-Potty-Train-your-Cat

Please spay or neuter your pets! There are thousands of unwanted animals put down every week! And, by all means, please adopt from a shelter should you decide to add a new, lovable family member.

As always, I certainly hope this was helpful.

"Be kind to one another" ~ Ellen

God Bless You ~ Margaret Sullivan