Declaw - More than Just a Manicure

HERE ARE EASY, AVAILABLE OPTIONS TO CONSIDER:

• Scratch Pads- Ever cat household needs at least two. Flat rectangular ones that sit on the floor, sisal ones that hang from a door- these are available at pet supply stores and through catalogues.
• "Scratching Post"- Get a sturdy one, tall enough for a full length body stretch.
• "Sticky Paws" is a double sided tape that you apply to upholstery that keeps the cat from scratching, since they don't like the sticky surface.
• "Feliway" duplicates the scent of the 'cheek-smell' produced when cats rub their face against something. Because the 'cheek-smell' scent is a 'feel-good' one that basically tells the cat to 'chill and calm down,' when cats rub up against furniture sprayed with Feliway, this applied scent reduces the stress that often prompts scratching.
• Kittens scratch because they just don't know how to retract their claws. Once older, like adult cats, they can be re-directed against such claw action.
• Attention - an essential substitute. Cats are mistakenly considered to be so aloof and independent, but the truth is they crave attention. Are you spending enough playtime daily with your felines? Create brief, specific play times, twice a day. Even if each one is for only four minutes, it's focused attention.
• "Soft Paws" - vinyl claw sheaths that cover the tip of the claw- they don't eliminate the behavior, just reduce the potential damage. Usually applied by a veterinarian.
• Distractions- keep a small water spray bottle handy. A quick squirt - at their furry tail, not face- will help discourage the act of scratching. Or shake an empty soda can with a few pennies in it - the tinny noise is uncomfortable to a cat's sensitive ears. Once you interrupt the scratching behavior, direct your cat to an acceptable scratching area, and be sure to reward your cat with praise and petting.
• Frequent 'Tip of the Nail' Clipping sessions are easy to do- ask your vet how. Then clip the tips every month- more if necessary. Give your cat a treat when done.
• Behavior Consultant- Specializing in feline behavior, these experts can make specific suggestions so you, and kitty, and kitty's claws can all happily live together.

Maryjean Ballner is a TVAR volunteer, and author of "Dog Massage" and the "Cat Massage" book and "Your Cat Wants a Massage!" videotape. She can be reached toll free at 1-877-MEOW-MEOW or www.catmassage.com.
Click here to visit Maryjean Ballner's website