Cat declawing is now banned in Massachusetts

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Eric Lesser said in a statement. The law, which goes into effect on July 1, 2023, prohibits the declawing of cats under the age of 6 months, except in cases where the cat is deemed to be a threat to human safety or in instances where the cat is already showing signs of aggression.

The Declawing Debate

The debate over declawing has been ongoing for years, with proponents arguing that it is a necessary procedure to prevent scratching damage to furniture and carpets. However, opponents argue that it is a cruel and inhumane practice that can cause significant pain and suffering to the cat.

The ASPCA has also taken a stance against declawing, citing concerns over animal welfare.

The Declawing Debate: A Look at the Laws and Animal Welfare Concerns

The debate over declawing animals has been ongoing for years, with proponents arguing that it is a necessary procedure for certain situations, while opponents claim it is inhumane and unnecessary. In recent years, several states have passed laws regulating or banning declawing, and the ASPCA has taken a strong stance against the practice.

The Laws

In 2019, the state of California passed a law banning declawing for non-therapeutic reasons. The law, which went into effect in 2020, prohibits veterinarians from performing declawing surgeries for cosmetic or aesthetic reasons. The law also requires veterinarians to provide alternative solutions for pet owners who want to prevent scratching damage. Some states, such as New York and New Jersey, have also passed laws regulating declawing, but these laws do not ban the practice entirely.

Animal Welfare Concerns

The ASPCA and other animal welfare organizations have raised concerns over the welfare of animals subjected to declawing. The procedure involves surgically removing the last bone of the toe, which can cause significant pain and discomfort for the animal. The ASPCA has stated that declawing can lead to behavioral problems, such as increased aggression and anxiety, in cats. The organization has also noted that declawing can cause chronic pain and arthritis in cats, particularly as they age.*

MSPCA-Angell’s Stance

MSPCA-Angell’s animal hospitals have refused to offer declawing surgeries for years.

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