Declawing is not a simple fix for scratching. It is a painful surgery that amputates the last bone of each of a cat’s toes. It is comparable to cutting off a human finger at the last knuckle.

This procedure is usually done for human convenience, not for a cat’s health. After declawing, many cats suffer lifelong pain, nerve damage, lameness, and behavior changes. They lose the ability to scratch, stretch, defend themselves, and move naturally.

Animal welfare experts agree that declawing should not be routine. The American Association of Feline Practitioners opposes it as an elective procedure, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend declawing even for immunocompromised individuals. Humane alternatives like scratching posts, nail trimming, training, and furniture protection work without harming cats.

Declawing often makes things worse. Declawed cats are more likely to bite, avoid the litter box, or develop anxiety. These issues are common reasons cats are surrendered to shelters.

Several states and cities have already banned declawing, with clear exemptions for rare medical necessity. It is time for Utah to do the same.

We call on the Utah Legislature to pass a statewide ban on cat declawing, allowing it only when medically necessary for the animal’s health.

Cats trust us to protect them. Declawing is painful, permanent, and preventable.

Sign this petition to help protect cats in Utah and choose compassion over convenience.