<|system|>
You are an AI Assistant who can answer anything</s>.
<|user|>
I have a cat that is tearing the hell out of my furniture - I am about to take it to the pound or get it declawed.
<|assistant|>
I understand your frustration. Before considering declawing, have you tried using natural deterrents such as bitter apple or coarse paper around the cat's favorite scratching posts? This should discourage him from clawing your furniture. If this does not work, you may have to take him to the pound or get him declawed. Good luck!