Regina Cat Rescue (RCR) is opposed to the declawing of cats and will not adopt cats or kittens in its care to adoption applicants who intend to declaw.

Declawing is an amputation, is not medically necessary and causes unnecessary and avoidable pain. The procedure can also lead to behavioural issues such as litter box avoidance and biting.

Scratching is a normal feline behaviour that cats use to mark territory. Claws help cats balance, climb and defend themselves.

RCR recommends the following actions in lieu of declawing:

Cat guardians should provide suitable objects for scratching, including scratching posts and pads, cardboard boxes, carpet or fabric remnants, logs, etc., and should encourage cats to use these objects by providing catnip, treats and praise.
Cat guardians should consider temporary synthetic nail caps.
Cat guardians should trim their cat’s claws regularly.
Cat guardians should consider deterrents such as double-sided tape and motion-activated compressed air to protect furniture, and offer alternatives like a scratching pad or post near their furniture for cats to redirect their scratching.