Claw Covers for Cats:

How Do They Work? Are They Effective?

A recent innovation in cat care and grooming is claw covers for cats.

Soft Claws are designed to cover your cats claws (of course!) and provide a sense of security for owners who are worried about cat claw control.

When it comes to sharp cat claws, people tend think to about cat declawing first. Since this not an option among many cat lovers, it's great to know there are humane options like claw covers for cats!

Soft Claws For Cats

The most popular brand of cat claw covers is called Soft Claws. They are adorable little "slip-on" covers. They come in a rainbow of colors, are easy to apply, and affordable. What could be better?

If you are worried about your woodwork, or children, maybe this is the solution you've been looking for!

Soft Claws was formerly known as Soft Paws. It's the same product! Soft Paws were developed by a veterinarian and they've been on the market since 1990. These cat claw covers are completely safe, and non-toxic. They don't hurt a cat at all. Most cats adjust to their new accessory within minutes.

They come in kits which last 4 - 6 months. You'll get 40 cat claw covers (also called nail caps), two tubes of adhesive, applicator tips, and instructions.

One kit contains four front paw applications. Each application lasts 4 - 6 weeks so the entire kit lasts 4 - 6 months.

Sizing Your Cat For Cat Claw Covers

Soft Paws come in four sizes:

Kitten: 3 or 4 months of age to 6 months or around 5-6 pounds

Soft Claws Paws for KITTENS 1st Year - Clear Natural - up to 5 lbs

Small: 6 - 8 pounds

Soft Claws Paws for Cats SMALL Clear Natural 6-8 lbs

Medium: 9 pounds (most popular size. An average size adult housecat) This would probably suit many female adult Maine Coon cats.

Soft Paws - Soft Claws for Cats - Medium Clear

Large: 14 pounds and up. A good size for most male Maine Coon cats and some females, too!

Soft Paws - Soft Claws for Cats - Large Clear

The application directions include trimming your cats claws, filling the cat claw covers to 1/3 with adhesive, extending the claw and slipping the Soft Paw on. Then just hold it on for a few minutes as it adheres.

Cats are able to retract their claws as usual, as well as stretch, run and play. They won't even know they're there (usually).

Bear in mind that cat claw covers should only be used on indoor cats, as they will interfere with a cats natural defenses outdoors.

Why Try Claw Covers for Cats?

Here are some reasons why cat claw covers can be a great choice:

Cost-effective: Each application of claw covers lasts 4-6 weeks, and there are 4 applications per kit, making each kit last about 4-6 months. It's an affordable way to protect both your loved ones and your belongings.

Comfortable for cats: Most cats don't even realize they're wearing them. Soft Claws won't interfere with normal scratching and stretching behavior, allowing cats to scratch as they please. They're safe, non-toxic, and can be used long-term without any negative effects.

Easy application: Applying the claw covers is simple - just add a few drops of the included adhesive to each cap and slide it over the nail.

Fashionable options: Soft Claws come in various colors, including clear, so you can choose to keep it simple or get creative with color combinations.

What Reviewers Have to Say:

The product reviews for these claw covers for cats offer a range of experiences and opinions, expressing both positive and negative aspects of these claw covers for cats.

Positive Aspects:

Effective Solution: Many reviewers express satisfaction with the effectiveness of the product in preventing scratching-related damage to furniture and injuries to humans or other pets. They appreciate that the Soft Claws allow cats to retain their ability to scratch and climb while reducing the damage caused.

Humane Alternative: Reviewers appreciate Soft Claws as a humane alternative to declawing, which is seen as painful and potentially traumatic for cats. They value the ability to protect their furniture and belongings without causing harm to their pets.

Easy Application: Despite some initial challenges, such as difficulty in applying the claw covers alone or managing the glue, reviewers generally find the application process manageable. With practice and patience, they are able to apply the Soft Claws effectively, often with the help of another person.

Longevity and Comfort: Users note that once applied, the Soft Claws tend to last for several weeks before needing replacement. Additionally, cats seem to adapt quickly to wearing them, with many reviewers reporting that their cats do not exhibit discomfort or attempt to remove the covers excessively.

Negative Aspects:

Application Challenges: Some users find the application process challenging, especially when attempting to apply the claw covers alone or dealing with issues like dried-out glue. This can lead to frustration and may require multiple attempts to achieve satisfactory results.

Durability: While Soft Claws generally last for several weeks, some users report issues with the covers falling off prematurely, especially if the glue is not applied correctly or if the cat is particularly persistent in trying to remove them.

Sizing and Fit: A few reviewers mention concerns about sizing inconsistencies or difficulties in finding the right fit for their cats. This can result in caps that are too loose, leading to potential discomfort or an increased likelihood of falling off.

Initial Discomfort for Cats: Despite ultimately adapting to wearing the Soft Claws, some cats may experience initial discomfort or resistance during the application process. This can include attempts to chew or remove the covers until they become accustomed to wearing them.

The reviews suggest that Soft Claws provide an effective and humane solution for preventing scratching-related damage, with most users experiencing positive results after overcoming initial challenges in application and sizing.

While there may be some issues with durability and fit, many cat owners find Soft Claws to be a valuable tool in promoting harmony between pets and their environment.

All in all, when it comes to cat claw control, Soft Claws claw covers for cats seem to be a solid choice. They'll give your cat long-lasting soft claws, and they'll give you peace of mind!

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