Take a look at the claws on your Maine Coon kitten. They are certainly sharp, aren’t they? Have you noticed your kitten using his scratch pad lately? You can bet he is sharpening those claws to a fine point. On the other hand, he may be using your furniture for that purpose – and possibly using your skin as well. Should you get him de-clawed?

De-clawing is a controversial topic among cat lovers, including Maine Coon Cat owners. Some are for it, while others are dead set against it. Who is right? Who is wrong? You don’t want your furniture shredded, but is it fair to the Maine Coon?

The first order of business, before even making a decision, is to look at the written agreement that you have with your breeder. Breeders often have stipulations in the written agreement that forbid you to have the cat de-clawed. They also often have other stipulations, such as ensuring that the animal is spayed or neutered, and that he or she is kept indoors. Did you already agree to never have your Maine Coon de-clawed? If so, don’t do it. Instead, find alternatives to de-clawing.

If there is nothing in the agreement that pertains to de-clawing, you still have a decision to make. The chances are good that your Maine Coon is already twelve weeks old (3 months). This is usually the cut-off age for many veterinarians for de-clawing. They often don’t want to do it past this age, because the base of the claw is no longer cartilage – it has become bone, and this could cause the animal a great deal of pain after the surgery.

Many people report that their cat’s attitude and personality changes after de-clawing. The cat becomes less trusting – and even unhappy in some cases. This attitude change may or may not pass, and you have to determine whether or not it is worth the risk. Most true animal lover’s will advise against de-clawing, because they do consider it to be an inhumane – unnecessary – act.

There are alternatives to de-clawing. First, purchase special nail clippers for your cat. These are specially designed clippers, so make sure that you get the ones designed for cats. Ask your veterinarian to show you how to use them properly, so that you aren’t hurting the animal.

Next, purchase some vinyl caps. These are sold online and in pet stores. They come in colors, and there is a clear version as well. These are simply glued onto your cat’s nails. He still gets the joy of scratching the furniture or the scratching post – but without the damage. These typically last for four to six weeks, depending on how much your cat scratches. When they fall off, you simply replace them.

Again, de-clawing is a serious matter that could have life long consequences. Make sure that you’ve carefully considered the options, and if possible, try the nail caps first. If you do want to de-claw the Maine Coon, however, note that this may have a negative effect in shows.

Cat Lover