Maybe the only thing I take exception with is that a person couldn't really love a cat if they got it declawed. While no one on here knows me personally, I don't think there is a person that does that doubts my love/dedication etc. for my cats. I really don't think it is so black and white.

As to mutilating an animal for one's own pleasure...I think that is an inaccurate way to state it. I am also reminded of those that dock/crop dog's tails/ears for standard purposes. Really, an argument could be made any way one likes it. As to the statement that the cats that come into shelters declawed are more easily spotted as behavioural issues, etc., one must look at the higher chance of behavioral issues that might exist which is probably the reason they were taken to the shelter in the first place.

I have six cats, have had cats always (and I am old), and can say without trepidation- my cats do not bite...in fact, have NEVER bitten, and I do mean never...(excluding play), use the litterbox faithfully (for which I am grateful), and couldn't be more affectionate if they were dogs! I have had service men ask me to put my cats away because they get in the way. So, while we all have opinions, they are just that. I might be the exception...maybe my cats are the only ones that fully recovered, and haven't suffered any trauma...I can't really know that. But, I will stand by my right to choice, and appreciate the opportunity to defend my position.

As to the pms...I appreciate that I haven't been feathered and tarred (yet?)...