|
Cats use their claws for a variety of purposes.
Claws are
an essential part of balancing for a cat. Cats also use
their claws to pull themselves up when jumping and latching on to a high
object. When climbing trees, cats use their claws to
latch onto the bark and climb towards their destination.
Cats also use their claws for stretching, walking, and running.
Claws are also a cat’s primary source of defense
against other animals. Most cats claws are extremely sharp, as claws and teeth are their only weapons.
Claws are also essential for using the
bathroom as well, since cats use their claws to cover up their mess.
Cats also use their claws to scratch things, which serves a
number of purposes. Their claws have glands which contain a secretion. When they
scratch something, the secretion is
transferred to it. Cats will also scratch things to
sharpen their claws.
Sometimes, cats will also
scratch something to remove an older claw to make room for a new claw
growing underneath.
As sad as it is, a lot of pet owners choose to put possessions above their cat. These cat owners choose to get
their cat de-clawed. Getting a cat’s claws removed is a surgical
procedure, one that can only be performed by a veterinarian.
If you’ve been thinking of getting your cat de-clawed, you
should know that the process can completely change his personality. Once the cat is de-clawed, he will be in pain and confused.
He won't be able to do things he was able to do prior to the
surgery.
He
may not be able to jump in the window or on the couch, and he
may not be able to play like he once did. Some cats tend to get aggressive
after being de-clawed, and may even start to bite with their teeth.
To
make a long story short, the cat will be completely miserable –
which is a tough thing to bear for those who love their cats.
Those who decide to own cats should be aware that cats scratch
on things. If you are worried about your
furniture and carpet, there are ways to keep your cat
from scratching on your belongings.
The first thing to do is to get your cat a scratching post.
Show him where it is and how to use it. You can also get a
rush mat, which draws the natural instinct of the cat to
scratch on it.
Be sure to demonstrate how to use the mat or the
post, and your cat will catch on quickly. You can also
sprinkle a little catnip on them to attract your cat's attention
to them. Once you have shown him the ropes, your cat will scratch on the post
or the mat – and not on your furniture or your carpet.
Before you decide to take the inhumane path of getting your cat
de-clawed, look into your other available options.
De-clawing is very painful and confusing to a cat,
and may permanently alter his personality. There are
better ways to protect your things that allow your pet to keep
his own protection.
|
