https://www.alleycat.org/new-jersey-ban-cruel-declawing-of-cats/
https://siouxempiretnr.org/declawing-cats/
https://www.peta.org/living/animal-companions/8-reasons-never-declaw-cats/
https://catsinternational.org/the-truth-about-declawing/
https://lbpost.com/hi-lo/pets/cat-or-couch-reaching-a-compromise-with-claws/
*Declawing is NOT a Harmless Grooming Procedure – it is Permanent and it involves Inhumane and Extremely Painful Amputation of the last bone of a cat’s toe, similar to severing a human finger at the final joint. This Invasive Surgery often causes Lasting Pain, Arthritis, Infections and Inflammations, plus Behavioral Problems, frequently leading to Abandonment and Euthanasia.
**Declawing by ANY Method leaves the cat Walking on Unprotected, Uncushioned Bone On Each Toe! The Bone into which each Claw is Embedded contains Claw Cells and Has to be Amputated or the Claws will Regrow Painfully Crooked. Each Toe Ends in a Stump of Bone which the cat has to Walk On Until They Die.
Senator Troy Singleton's S1406 bill to prohibit declawing in New Jersey has successfully passed, marking a significant victory in the fight for animal protection. Despite facing strong opposition, the bill's passage represents a major step forward for the humane treatment of cats in the state. While the bill’s passage is a monumental achievement, there is still hope that adequate deterrents will be included in future amendments to ensure that declawing is truly eradicated in New Jersey.
The bill, which prohibits the declawing of cats except for medical necessity, underscores the growing recognition of the severe pain and long term health consequences this procedure inflicts on cats. Declawing is not simply a nail trim, but a permanent amputation of a cat’s toes, which can lead to arthritis, balance issues, and aggressive behavior. These effects not only harm the cats but also increase the likelihood of them being surrendered to shelters.
Fortunately, there are humane alternatives such as scratching posts, nail caps, and regular nail trimming, which can address scratching behavior without causing lasting harm.
New Jersey now joins a growing list of states and countries taking action to protect cats from the cruelty of declawing. With more states, including New York and Maryland, enacting similar laws, and global momentum building against this practice, New Jersey’s decision to pass S1406 is an important step toward ensuring that more cats live pain free, healthier lives.
As the law moves forward, there is hope that continued efforts will strengthen protections, creating a future where declawing is a thing of the past and cats are treated with the care and respect they deserve.
*At Whiskers, Paws and Love®, we’re disheartened by the loophole, but we’re encouraged that the conversation around animal welfare is finally gaining momentum. While this law isn’t everything we hoped for, it’s a significant step forward, and we appreciate the progress made.
Our commitment to advocating for stronger protections remains unwavering, as we continue to push for a future where animals are better safeguarded. With the support of compassionate individuals, we will keep working toward a world where every animal is treated with the respect and care they deserve.
*Every paw deserves to walk without pain, and every cat deserves to be treated with kindness and respect.
