Lisa is a lovable, adorable, sweet cat abandoned by her owner - who had her declawed. She is currently available at the Seattle Animal Shelter (Photo provided by Colleen)

Debilitating Practice
Something I wish more American veterinarians would counsel their human clients about is de-clawing cats. It is a practice seen as diabolical in other nations, it's only practiced in the US. This is not a procedure akin to cutting our nails. It's an operation that cuts off the end of the cat's paws - akin to having our fingers cut off past their first knuckle. It is, to a degree, debilitating.

Once declawed, the cat cannot live around other animals because it does not have its front claws for defense, nor can it be let outside for the same reason. Further, it can't climb trees or do other activities natural to our feline friends.

Why Are so Many Declawed Cats Surrendered?
At the shelter, I believe we see a disproportionate number of declawed cats surrendered, and I think I've figured out why.

People get cats declawed because they don't want the animal to, essentially, be an animal. They don't want to have to train the cat to not scratch here, not climb there, and in essence do what cats do until they are trained. Many owners of declawed cats don't seem to have the commitment to the relationship with the animal that requires them to educate themselves about how to train cats not to scratch the furniture, not to climb into places that would destroy their property, and so on. It really is not that time consuming or difficult to learn these things, but it does take time and attention.

Pet owners who are committed to dealing with their animals - learning to train, socialize and nurture the pet and their relationship with the animal - find they bond and enjoy their pet connection.

Reality Check is Needed
Owners who want their animals to be "perfect" are not dealing with the reality of living with an organic living creature who normally needs attention, guidance, affection and socializing. This owner will always be "disappointed" when their cat turns out to have needs normal to any cat or pet; when their cat behaves like any cat does - even shedding or having potty training trouble.