Landmark Legislation: California Declaws Declawing

Governor signs AB 867, banning cat declawing—a win for kitty welfare!

“AB 867 is a game-changer for animal welfare,” says Assemblymember Alex Lee. “We’re standing up for our feline friends by ditching this cruel practice.”

Veterinarians are cheering; most back a ban unless medically needed. California joins a growing list of declawing-free zones. West Hollywood led the charge in 2003, followed by seven other California cities. New York, Maryland, D.C., and Massachusetts have also joined the cause. Globally, Australia, New Zealand, the U.K., and Switzerland have long said no to declawing.

Declawing? Think toe amputation, tendon severing, and a host of health woes. Expect post-surgery pain, bleeding, and behavior issues like biting and litter box aversion. Long-term? Overgrooming, chronic pain, and mobility problems.