Donna, most people who declaw their cats are ignorant about the consequences, but this woman sounds like she doesn't really care whether it will be painful to the cat, all she cares about is her furniture. If you can talk to her and perhaps show her a few articles about declawing, she may be enlightened and change her mind. However, you'll not feel sure, what ever she says now, will you? If you let her have Parker, you'll be wondering for a long time, has she declawed her or not. I don't think you should let her have Parker, unless you feel totally sure she won't do it.

Next time you have a cat up for adoption on Petfinder, will it be possible to require (demand) that the cat goes to a home who doesn't declaw?