I actually just always assumed this is what declawing meant, trimming your kitty's claws with nail-clippers occasionally, so they don't mess up the place so much. When I eventually realised (enlightened by the Internet, as always) what some Americans do to their pets, i.e. removing the actual top joint of each digit, I was shocked. I decided it must be a bonsai-kitten style hoax, it just didn't seem like anyone who loved their pet could mutilate it like that.
It still makes me sick to think about it, having seen photos of deeply unhappy kittens with bandaged paws. Maybe the owners should have the tips of their fingers removed with bolt-cutters, just in case they scratch something with their nails?
Gaaah.