I have 2 cats at the present and have had 2 others that have passed on due to old age. I have never declawed one and I do not have issues. I agree with spay and neutering, it must be done. There are too many unwanted pets, and it does settle them down. Declawed cats can start biting as it is all they have left. I know some people do it and it is your decision. Indoor cats generally have a long life and they do escape occasionally (seems to be a game with mine).