Pets

Cat Care

Read why declawing cats is a bad idea. Key points: pain, increased risk of injury, lameness, nerve damage. Frequently asked questions regarding declawing and feline scratch behavior by The Paw Project. Be sure to read the right column which states numerous countries where declawing is illiegal or considered inhumane.

How to trim your cat's nails: Best to discuss nail trimming procedure with your veterinarian.

ASPCA helpful hints. Scroll down page to read about nail trimming.

CatWorld resource includes photos and reminder to get your cat accustomed to you handling h/her paws.

CatScratching info written by a veterinarian.

PetEducation info by practicing veterinarians.

Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine guidelines. Although the pictures show someone wearing a short sleeved shirt, long sleeves would provide arm protection.

Cats Indoors - Help protect our biodiversity and reduce the chance of your cat getting lost or killed by keeping your cat indoors; Cats Indoors! The Campaign for Safer Cats and Birds by the American Bird Conservancy well delineates why domestic cats need to be indoors. Key points: cats are natural hunters, even when well fed, so they kill song birds and small mammals when free to roam outdoors. Outdoor cat hazards include being hit by cars; cat fights; maulings by dogs, foxes, and raccoons; and various diseases including feline leukemia and rabies. Please keep your cats indoors. On another vein, ask you veterinarian about getting your pet microchipped so vets and shelters will be able to identify your pet and notify you if it escapes outside. In case your cat (or dog) gets lost read helpful info by PetRescue, a small nonprofit in FL.