demonshya@aol.com writes

Oh? You are not aware that thousands of cats are dumped at shelters all the
time..that people treat their cats like pillows and if the animal doesn't go
w/the decor..out it goes.  All you had to do was to respond by saying that you
were knowledgable about cats and wanted one.

You might not be aware that when a cat is de-clawed they
cut off the end of their toes so the toe nail won't grow.

That cripples a lot of cats if it's not done right.

If you treat your cat like an equal, Yes I said equal, it
will understand if you don't want it to claw the furniture
and it won't claw or scratch you with it's claws because
it won't be scared of you.

  Unfortunately there are always some nasty people on all newsgroups.
That's life.

  One thing you will find is that there are very strong views about
declawing.  While it is considered acceptable - even normal - in parts
of the USA it is considered abhorrent by many, and is illegal in much of
the world.

  I am sorry for the attack.  While it is true that your posting showed
signs of ignorance that was no excuse for the venom of the reply.

Why would someone want a cat that is free? Because they can't afford to pay
for one! Why would they want one that is spayed/neutered and declawed
already? Because they can't afford those surgeries! WHY WOULD THEY WANT A
CAT IN THE FIRST PLACE - did her daughter say she wanted one for Christmas?
Cats are expensive! Buying high quality (not store brand) cat food, good cat
litter, nice toys, yearly (if the cat doesn't get sick inthe meantime) vet
visits, vaccinations to keep the cat healthy.. it all adds up!!! And God
forbid they let the cat outside to be terrorized by neighborhood dogs, cat
hating neighbors, fast cars and kids with sticks and stones! I am going to
have nightmares over this post!!!

Don't get me wrong that their heart might have been in the right place, but
cats are a big responsibility. I have had cat's all my life and would not
live without a few in my home. I would go and get a bank loan if need be if
my cats needed emergency vet care! I love them like children (my daughter
calls them her siblings)! As far as declawing.. I don't believe in it. They
have SoftPaw claw covers if training doesn't work and of course.. they are
another expense! My kitties are worth every penny! The love and trust they
show me is my reward for their care!

Mary