As listed before some alternatives include:

scratching posts

cardboard scratchers

cat tree/ladder

cat-friendly end tables and furniture

cat nail caps

proper nail trimming

simply more exercise

 

CAT DECLAWING ALTERNATIVE SECRETS - PICK THE PERSONALLITY

But how do I know which alternative my cat will be successful with ?

If your thinking this then your on the right page, some alternatives work best with only some types of cats. And we definitely know every cat behaves specifically differently, however generally similar. This is why we are all looking for a solution but to maximize your chances we have to specifically know the personality type of your cat.

The Aggressive Cat (usually the one that scratches people or are really aggressive with the furniture) would NOT like "soft paws" or cat nail caps. You do not hear this very often however they can be scratched off if your cat really does not like them (aggressive cats). The best alternative for an aggressive cat would be a place where it can take out it's energy this can be a cat tree, cardboard scratcher, cat ladder, more exercise, or proper nail trimming.

The Adventurous Cat (the one that is rarely home, and climbs trees like crazy), is only scratching because that is how the cat behaves naturally. This cat would not like soft paws due to the fact it is always outside and has to use it's paws for protection, and cannot defend itself with soft paws. It is also likely to have them scrapped or fallen off it's claws. This can be changed very easily. The solution would be a cat tree or ladder (relax it's not as big as it sounds). But do not worry you won't have to pay hundreds to get this kind of equipment like you'd think. There are ways to build a cat tree or ladder by yourself, after you have bought your supplies. Also remember to keep these around the areas of your home that the family is attracted to (family/living room), and slowly move them to areas where the cat would be alone most of the time. Here is a link to a page that outlines how to build these cat declawing alternative items.

The Lazy Cat (the one that sits around all day, sleeps, and rarely shows energy), is probably best going with the soft paws, or cat nail caps. Once again the only reason it scratches is natural cat behavior. It would not like the cat tree/cat ladder due to the fact it would never use it. This cat would not scratch the nail caps off because it does not really care whether they are on.

The Mixed Cat (the one that shows at least 2 of the above personalities), should try most of these alternatives starting with the cat tree/cat ladder (shown to work for most cats), and working down to soft paws. The reason I have put soft paws last is because I would really like to save you people some money and make things a lot more convenient. Although a product that sometimes works, why waste your time every whenever putting fake nails on your cat and wasting money regularly (like a subscription) when you could just get supplies from a hardware store and build your own solution. The best part also is the fact that this takes the away the root problem (taming behavior and controlling to "scratch-friendly" area), while soft paws are just a temporary solution. And it is 100% safe.