Already Declawed

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Hello, I am thinking about getting a Maine coon cat from the local SPCA and I was looking up info. Is it true that the cat can not participate in shows if she is declawed and will I not be able to register in Maine coon associations? Is this true, even if I am not the one who had her declawed? I used to work in a vet clinic and think the procedure is hideous. But she has already been declawed. She is beautiful and I would like to show her off if I get her. Thanks!

-- Anonymous, August 24, 2000

Answers

Hi, Janet.

CFA does not allow declawed cats to be shown in any category, not even in household pets. However, TICA does allow declawed cats to be shown with no penalty.

Does the kitty come with registration papers? Unless you have those, you will not be able to show her as a pedigreed Maine Coon in the alter class. (And if she does come with registration papers, someone from the shelter should notify the breeder...most will jump at the chance to rescue a cat they brought into the world.) Sometimes long- haired domestic cats are labeled as "Maine Coons" by shelter personnel to help them find a home quicker, even though they are not purebred. While this is definitely better for the kitty in question (and I do want her to find a good home), if owning a purebred, pedigreed, registered Maine Coon Cat is important to you, you should contact a breeder about acquiring one of their retirees. They often come with a lower price tag than a new kitten and are just as lovable and rewarding as pets (and show cats, depending...be sure to tell the breeder you want to show).

Good luck both to you and the shelter kitty.

-- Anonymous, August 31, 2000


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