There are more and more declawed cats being abandoned here than ever. Within the last two weeks, I have heard of four declawed cats, two of which are Persians, being abandoned by their owners. This act of abandonment by owners is insensitive and ruthless, knowing that their cat, apart from being deprived of a home and food, is also open to attack.

Cat owners who subject their pets to declawing are thoughtless and cruel. The pain the cat endures for some time after its operation is quite unacceptable by any caring person’s standards.

The declawing of cats is just pandering to the whims of callous pet owners who care more about their furnishings then their pets! I have cats and they do not claw my furniture because I have taken the time to discipline them, in a kind, but firm way not to do this! It appears that ‘can’t be bothered’ is solved by subjecting the poor creature to what amounts to plain cruelty.

A cat with no claws cannot defend itself against dog attacks, as well as other cats. It cannot even climb a tree to get out of harm’s way. Removing the claws of a cat is also depriving it of its inborn instincts.

Anyone who is thinking of getting a cat with the intention of declawing it, please do not get a cat. This will show that you really are a kind person where animals are concerned. I urge the government to hurry up a make the declawing of cats illegal in Malta.

D Bailey

Sliema