What’s Your Opinion on De-Clawing Cats?

In my lifetime I have either owned or lived with a number of cats at different times. I have yet to ever de-claw anyone of them. I never really thought about the idea past the point of saving furniture vs a cat's safety if ever they get outside. I would never ever de-claw an outdoor cat because the claws are their defense but as for an indoor cat I was always indifferent.

I came across an article in my hometown newspaper that talks about the banning of de-clawing cats in the province of Nova Scotia. The Veterinary Medical Association says it outdated and inhumane. What do you think?

What does the cat say? Does it affect them? These are questions for the experts I suppose but what are your thoughts? I know our vet will do the procedure but doesn't advocate for it.