I need to start this by saying I have never declawed a cat. But in the opinion of others, I have done much worse. My cats go outside on a regular basis, by their own choice.

So who am I to say that declawing is a terrible thing. One of my best friends has just stated that she did it, and her cats are fine. My sister did it, and both of hers are fine too. I didn't do it, and both of mine are fine as well.

Jen, I think people have to make informed decisions and be offered alternatives. If they can train their cats to claw in specified locations, good for them!! And I hope that all would try that method first. But as my vet told me recently, he doesn't like declawing, but prefers it to people sending their animals to animal control or throwing them outside to fend for themselves. He brought me a whole new perspective on the subject.

Logan