California bans declawing cats under new state law signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom [View all]
California has officially outlawed the practice of declawing cats after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 867 into law, a measure animal welfare advocates are calling a historic win for animal protection and compassionate treatment.
The bill, authored by Assemblymember Alex Lee and signed Thursday, makes California the largest state to prohibit the procedure, which involves amputating the first bone in each of a cat’s toes or severing tendons to prevent claw extension. Declawing will now only be allowed when medically necessary to treat a health condition, according to the legislation.
In a press release, In Defense of Animals, one of several groups that helped lead the years-long campaign to end declawing, celebrated the governor’s decision. “Declawing isn’t a nail trim, it’s a painful amputation that has no place in a compassionate society,” said Dr. Marilyn Kroplick, the organization’s president. “Today’s victory proves California is leading the way in protecting cats and prioritizing their well-being over human convenience.”
Declawing, while once a common practice to prevent cats from scratching people or furniture, has become increasingly controversial among veterinarians and pet owners. The procedure has been linked to chronic pain, infections, arthritis, and behavioral problems such as litter box avoidance and increased biting. According to In Defense of Animals, declawing “often results in lifelong suffering,” and many cats who experience complications are later surrendered to shelters.
https://ktla.com/news/california/california-bans-declawing-cats-under-new-state-law-signed-by-gov-gavin-newsom/
Long overdue but thank you so much Governor Newsom!
Nothing sadder than a cat that has been declawed. 
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