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My cat is destroying furniture. Should I declaw or try other options?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 3 lbs

Hello, I have a cat (Elliot) about a year and some months old , I got him from Petco actually. He has destroyed all my furniture and keeps on breaking more with his nails I do have about 3 scratch poles for him yet, he keeps on scratching everything; even after I cut his nails, he keeps on making things worst. Would it be better to remove his nails? Cause other wise I will have to give him back to a shelter, which I really wouldn't want to do. Thanks in advance Gus N.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 7th, 2018

I'm sorry you are having problems with Elliot. I would discourage you from having him declawed. Declaw surgery involves amputation of the last bone of the digit. So if you look at your fingers, its the equivalent of cutting off your finger below your fingernail, at that top knuckle. Now imagine having to bear weight on it. Especially in adult cats, recovery can be very painful, long, and difficult, and can even change their personality to some degree. This article has some more information regarding declawing: https://www.petcoach.co/article/5-quick-facts-to-consider-before-deciding-to-declaw-your-cat/ I do understand your frustration though; perhaps there are some other things you can try before giving him back to a shelter. This article has some great suggestions I think you will find helpful. https://www.petcoach.co/article/scratch-the-surface-why-cats-scratch-and-how-to-redirect-this-nat/ I hope that helps! Good luck with him!

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