Cats are a beloved pet and known for their playful nature. Unfortunately, cats can get carried away and use their razor sharp claws claws on things that aren't their toys or cat trees. So what can we do when a cat accidentally scratches someone, or starts leaving marks on the sofa? We declaw them of course! Take your cat to the vet and they will surgically remove your pet's last bone on each of their toes so that you don't have to deal with clipping your cats nails. I mean, there's only a 1/3rd chance your cat will develop an infection or behavioral problems. Its so humane and easy that only 50% of cats who are declawed may develop physical complications, such as long term back and paw pain, as well as strain on their joins and muscles. Sure your cat might become aggressive as a result of their chronic pain, but at least your curtains are intact, right?

Cat's should not have to suffer for convenience. There are other, less invasive ways to manage your cats scratching habits, such as training them, or keeping their claws trimmed. Cats are living creatures, not a toy or a commodity. They deserve the time and effort to find alternatives to declawing them. It is estimated that there are 19 million declawed cats in the United States, and so many of them are suffering because someone didn't know or didn't care about the dangers of declawing.

Sioux Falls needs to outlaw this cruel and inhumane practice so that no more cats need to suffer. 42 countries and two US states have already passed legislation to outlaw the declawing of cats; it is time for South Dakota to follow suit.

This legislation can also pave the way for other harmful practicing to be banned as well, such as cropping a dog's ear or breeding animals that are prone to health issues.