https://www.wric.com/news/virginia-news/virginia-becomes-third-state-to-ban-declawing-cats/
https://pawproject.org/virginia-bill-signed-by-governor/
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.
In a landmark move for animal welfare, Virginia has become the 6th state in the U.S. to pass a law banning the declawing of cats. Effective in July 2025, the new legislation makes it illegal for veterinarians to perform declawing procedures unless medically necessary, such as in cases where a cat has a disease or abnormal condition.
Exceptions are also made for situations involving the health of the cat’s owner, such as in cases of severe illness. This law reflects a growing recognition of the serious physical and behavioral consequences of declawing, which involves not just removing claws but amputating part of the cat's toes.
Animal rights advocates have long raised concerns about the traumatic effects of declawing, highlighting that the procedure often leads to lifelong pain and behavioral issues for cats.
Declawed cats frequently struggle with basic activities, such as walking and using the litter box, due to the extensive pain caused by the procedure. Experts emphasize that declawing is not a harmless grooming procedure, but rather a significant amputation that can result in permanent damage, including arthritis and mobility issues. These dire consequences have made it clear that alternative solutions, such as regular nail trimming, scratching posts, and nail caps, should be used to address scratching behavior in a more humane manner.
This legislative shift places Virginia alongside New York and Maryland in taking a strong stance against the practice of declawing, and it is a significant victory for animal advocates. As the public becomes more aware of the harsh realities of declawing, experts urge pet owners to choose humane alternatives that respect the natural behaviors of cats. With the new law in place, Virginia is taking a step toward improving the lives of cats and promoting compassionate care for animals across the state.
*At Whiskers, Paws and Love®, we share the disappointment over the loophole in the new law, but we are still encouraged that this marks a step forward in the fight for animal welfare.
While the bill’s protections may not be as strong as we hoped, it’s a sign that the conversation around animal rights and humane treatment is gaining traction. We remain committed to advocating for laws that truly protect cats and other animals from unnecessary harm. Together, we will continue pushing for stronger protections and work toward a future where every animal is treated with the dignity and care they deserve.
*Every paw deserves to walk without pain, and every cat deserves to be treated with kindness and respect.
