Originally Posted by bangman

I don't know...I never had a cat before and I got a kitten about 8 months ago.

I really don't think it's a good idea to declaw though. Just treat her right and gentle and you will not have anything to worry about with her slapping your kid around. A declawed cat isn't going to be able to move around as easy, and from what others have noted here - you might end up with an agressive cat that way.

As far as litterbox training - cats will learn very, very fast. Just pop her in the box and let her know where it is and you will not have any problems.