CRUEL FOR CATS
Claws out for the owners who parade pets with fake nails on social media
THEY are the latest trend for cats and dogs – stick-on ‘nails’ that make it look like they have had their claws painted.
But the growing popularity of the plastic covers has triggered something of a catfight.
Pictures of cat owners posing with nails matching those of their pet have become commonplace on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
However, a leading animal welfare charity claimed yesterday that the claw covers are cruel and suggested they are being used to turn pets into fashion accessories. It said that they stop cats carrying out their natural behaviour, such as scratching. Vets also criticised the trend. But one of the firms that sells the claw covers rejected the accusations – as did several pet owners.
They say that far from being cruel, the plastic covers stop a cat shredding furniture and scratching their owners’ arms and legs. They also stop cats harming themselves by scratching excessively, manufacturers say.
The row began when Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in South London rescued a five-year-old black and white tabby, Christina, who was brought in with red claw covers.
It said the trend was alarming, adding: ‘ Whereas painting your own talons might be a fun fashion statement, the same can’t be said for dogs or cats. This could potentially cause more harm than good to pets.’ Vets removed them under anaesthetic and Christina has since been rehomed.
Lindsey Quinlan, head of catteries at Battersea, said: ‘This is the first time we’ve seen a cat come in with claw covers. It’s extremely cruel to inflict this sort of thing on your cat as it stops them from displaying their natural behaviours.’
British Veterinary Association senior vice president Sean Wensley said: ‘Our pets are not fashion accessories. Not only can nail varnishes, and the adhesives used for sticking claw covers, potentially be toxic for cats and dogs, but claw covers prevent cats from retracting their claws, which can be distressing and painful.
‘Scratching is a normal and necessary part of a cat’s behaviour. Pet owners worried about their cat scratching household furniture should provide alternatives, such as scratching posts. If you’re struggling with your cat’s behaviour, speak to your vet.’
Most cats have five claws on their front paws and four or five on their rear paws. The fifth front claw is the thumb-like dewclaw, which helps provide better grip while climbing. Cats scratch hard surfaces to sharpen their claws and to leave a scent.
The RSPCA said: ‘While we often enjoy painting our nails and wearing jewels, dogs and cats don’t understand what is happening and may find this distressing.’
But the UK distributor of one of the leading brands of nail caps, Soft Claws, said the covers – which cost £22.95 for a set of 14 plus adhesive – are a good solution for cat owners whose animals have a serious problem with scratching.
Simon To, chief executive of Soft Claws UK, said: ‘Soft Claws are completely safe.’ The covers prevent children and the elderly being scratched, he said, and are recommended for indoor cats only – and not as a fashion accessory.
‘Cause more harm than good’