Aguu, it is a problem, knowing what to do or say in a situation like this. I faced it, several times, with my own sister, who I love dearly. Her animals are well cared for, much loved, but she always declaws her cats because of the damage they can cause on furniture and carpeting. Her cats are always indoor only cats, thank goodness. On several occasions, I have explained my position to her, and she completely understands, but she has always declawed anyway.

Sometimes you have to love people for who they are, for their acceptance of you when you state your opinion, then just back off, knowing that opinions differ at times and we don't always get the results we want. But never stop stating your opinion about declawing in a thoughtful, respectful manner, because one day, you may keep it from happening, even if it is only once, and it will have all been worth it.

I am in total agreement with your stance on the declawing issue, and I have my share of snagged furniture to show for it. You can only hope that the cat won't be in too much pain, and that its personality won't be affected by this surgery. In the case of my sister's cats, it never has been, thankfully.

Logan