Anti-scratch for cats: veterinarians' opinions on the pros and cons of soft claws
Anti-scratch for cats is a convenient “gadget” for owners of meowing pets, which helps them solve problems with their pets’ sharp claws.
They are soft silicone caps that are attached to the claws using a special non-toxic glue.
However, veterinarians do not recommend using nail caps, and here's why.
The whole truth about anti-scratch
Even for calm cats, the process of putting on anti-scratch pads can cause stress. It can last from several days (adaptation period) to several weeks.
It is important to remember that a cat must be able to sharpen its claws – this is provided by nature. How the prohibition of instinct affects the animal’s psyche can only be guessed at. The cat does not adapt to new sensations, but simply resigns itself to them.
After installing protective caps, the cat experiences prolonged discomfort.
The animal cannot jump high and fully feel the surface when moving.
Anti-scratch caps are strictly contraindicated for street cats that live in a house and have access to the street: just imagine that a cat needs to quickly run away from a dog or climb a tree. Will it be able to catch its claws on the bark if they are smooth because of the caps?
Some owners perform claw removal surgery on their pets. If you have to choose between this and using anti-scratch caps, silicone caps cause less harm to animals.
