I THOUGHT we would only have one cat, but I just couldn't help thinking about all of the poor, homeless cats at the shelter. Under our lease we are only allowed two animals. If it weren't for that I would have more! We already have plans for a black cat and maybe a dog when we move into our first church.

As far as declawing, neither of my pets have had any ill effects. We had Pickles for quite a while WITH claws, but he was scratching us both so much that we decided it was time. (Not to mention my woven throws, and shower curtain) Both of them sharpen their "claws". They are strictly indoor cats.

My parents have always done partial declawing on their cats (indoor/outdoor). They have brought up such wonderful things as: rabbits, gophers, moles, mice, rats, pheasants, baby turkeys, every songbird imaginable... it didn't affect their hunting. They can't climb trees, but I think the firemen are happy about that