Declawing Enlightenment?
by Michael
I attempt, once again, to try and understand why a large percentage of Americans declaw their cats. I do this in a series of why questions and answers, drilling down until I come to an answer that provides a conclusion.
Q: Why are cats declawed?
A: To prevent furniture being scratched.
Q: Why do people want to prevent furniture from being scratched?
A: Because it looks unattractive when it is scratched.
Q: Why does furniture look unattractive when it is scratched?
A: Because it looks damaged and some of the surfaces are rough and torn.
Q: Why are the surfaces rough and torn when scratched?
A: Because a cat's claws are sharp.
Q: Why are a cat's claws sharp?
A: So that they can (a) defend themselves (b) mark territory (c) catch prey (d) grab and stretch - all natural forms of behaviour.
Q: Why are these natural forms of behaviour?
A: Because God made cats that way (note: a lot of Americans believe that God created the world).
Q: Why do people modify what God created?
A: Because when cats are kept indoors they don't need their claws for natural behaviour.
Q: Why do Americans keep their cats indoors?
A: To protect them from the dangers outside.
Q: Why protect cats from dangers outside?
A: It keeps them more healthy and prevents injury.
Q: Why keep cats more healthy and prevent injury?
A: Because the cat will be happier and the person will not need to pay vet's bills.
Q: Why is it good to keep the cat happier?
A: Because it keeps the person happier.
Q: Why avoid vet's bills?
A: Because it keeps the person happier.
Conclusion
People declaw cats because it makes them happier.
Q: Is that a good reason to mutilate a cat?
A: NO.
