Soft Paws: An Alternative to Declawing Cats

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What is Soft Paws?

Soft Paws is a safe, humane alternative to declawing a cat. All you're really doing is gluing little vinyl nail caps on your cat's front claws.

They don't last forever, of course. They'll eventually fall off and need to be replaced, which is why each Soft Paws kit comes with a set of 40 of cat nail caps.

Is Soft Paws Safe? 

Yup, it's Humane Cat Scratching Protection!

Soft Paws are perfectly safe. They're nontoxic and comfortable for your cat. Most cats don't even notice they're wearing those little nail caps, since they can still extend and retract their claws like normal.

It's not even a big deal if your cat accidentally swallows one. A Soft Paw nail cap will pass harmlessly through your cat's digestive system. Even the glue is nontoxic.

Did You Know?

Soft Paws can even be used for other pets like dogs, rabbits, ferrets, and even iguanas.

How to Apply Soft Paws 

Instructions for Applying Cat Nail Caps


  • Trim the narrowest part of the cat's front claws. Be very careful not to cut the quick of the claw (the pink tissue inside the claw). Skip this step if this is a kitten, since you need more claw surface for the glue to stick.

  • Pour some glue into a nail cap. You should only need to fill it 1/3 full. Only use the glue that comes with Soft Paws!

  • Gently press the cat's pad area to extend the claws. You should do this when your cat is calm and relaxed.

  • Place the caps on the claws. One at a time, of course.

  • Hold onto your cat for at least five minutes. You want to give the glue time to dry before you let your kitty go.

Review of Soft Paws for Cats 

Soft Paw Testimonial

Cat Soft Claws Nail Caps Blue Medium 10-15 LBs

Amazon Price: $16.85 (as of 01/03/2010)Buy Now

"I think declawing in inhumane. That did not keep me from being dissatisfied when my cats scratched up my furniture. I've been using these covers for about 4 months now and think they are great. My cats are very cooperative when I put them on and don't notice them after they've been on for 10 minutes. My cats and I are very happy. I recommend these for all cat owners. Order these and you and your cat will soon be at peace with eachother."
- Kathryn Gallup, Amazon Reviewer

Video: A Vet Puts Soft Paw Tips on a Cat 

Soft Paws Demonstration Video

Here's a video on YouTube showing a vet putting Soft Paw caps on a cat's claws.

Dr. Donna DeBonis applies SoftPaws

SoftPaws are a humane alternative to declaw. Each kit contains 40 colorful nail caps, glue, & applicators. reapply every 3 months after trimming your cats nails.

curated content from YouTube

Have there been any Complaints about Soft Paws? 

Certainly. Some people have complained because using Soft Paws is too much of a hassle for them. After all, it means buying the kit, subduing your cat enough to put the caps on, and replacing the caps as they fall off.

Some cat owners have problems because their cat just won't stand for having their paws messed with in any way. Before you buy Soft Paws, it's a good idea to see if you can get your cat used to getting his claws trimmed.

Kitty Feedback Corner 

Have you ever used the Soft Paws product? What was your experience like?

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  • Reply
    azharkamar azharkamar Dec 3, 2009 @ 1:16 am
    Cool stuff... I visited the website. Gonna get one for my cat!

    I'm wondering whether Soft Paws have an affiliate system. I have a cat website (www.CatsNu.com) where I'd like to promote Soft Paws.
  • Reply
    catx catx Oct 15, 2009 @ 8:33 am
    Nice cat pics. Here you also find similar site http://catx.in
  • Reply
    Mellie Mellie Sep 8, 2008 @ 6:01 pm
    I think they're WAY better than a declaw, but they aren't exactly "perfectly safe" all of the time. Sometimes the claws aren't shed properly, or they can get compressed into the kitty's pads.When that happens, her toes could get infected, and walking will become painful until you get the cap off. (or have your vet do it) If you're going to use them, then I'd recommend alternating the colors so you can keep an eye on the age of the cap, and make sure they're being shed properly. After this happened to one of my cats, we went back to just trimming once a week.
  • Reply
    Shannon Valentine Shannon Valentine Apr 8, 2008 @ 12:53 am
    Yes we have used soft paws, and we love them, if you have kids then I highly recommend them so the kids don't get scratched, saves money too. Yes it is a little bit of a hassle but it is well worth it and it is very humane. My advice is message your cats paws daily, and about 2 to 3 days before applying soft paws. trust me its well worth it. Did I mention it saves your furniture too. Don't Hesitate

by Catkin

I love cats. They were always in my life while I was growing up. They're cute, they're furry, they're independent, and they are anything but servile! (more)

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