As an extremely concerned citizen and devoted cat mom residing in Arkansas, I am deeply disturbed by the practice of feline declawing in our state: a procedure that is not only physically brutal, but also excruciatingly painful for our beloved pets. Declawing involves the full amputation of the last bone of each toe on a cat's paw, comparable to removing a human's fingertips at the first joint. This invasive, barbaric procedure can lead to significant long-term physical and behavioral issues in cats including chronic pain, tissue necrosis, the development of harmful habits, and more. 

Although declawing is widely condemned as inhumane by numerous veterinary organizations—including the American Veterinary Medical Association, the Feline Veterinary Medical Association & American Association of Feline Practitioners, the American Animal Hospital Association, and even the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—it somehow remains legal in our state. This is despite growing awareness and plenty of emerging scientific evidence that highlight just how extreme the suffering is that declawing causes. Arkansas has the opportunity to join states like New York, Maryland, Virginia, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and California, as well as over 38 different countries, in finally banning declawing, ultimately recognizing it as a form of unimaginable cruelty. It’s time for us to take a stand for those who can't. 

Governor Sarah Huckabee-Sanders, Speaker Matthew J. Shepherd, and President Pro Tempore Bart Hester, we implore you to act swiftly and decisively. With the prefiling of bills opening on November 16, 2026, and the potential for a vote during the 2027 regular session, now is the time to introduce legislation forever prohibiting cat declawing in Arkansas. By doing so, we not only protect our well-loved cats from unnecessary cruelty, but also align our state's veterinary practices with modern, ethical standards.

The voices of countless veterinarians and animal welfare advocates echo the need for this change. A recent survey published by the Center for Animal Welfare showed that over 90% of veterinarians recommend against declawing (except in *rare* medical circumstances), underscoring the importance of prioritizing alternative solutions such as behavioral training and proper claw maintenance.

Let's lead the South by example and demonstrate our commitment to compassionate animal care. Together, we can push forward this crucial legislation and bring about real, meaningful change. Let us give our sweet cats the future they deserve, one totally free from pain and mutilation.

Join me in calling for an end to cat declawing forever in Arkansas. Your signature truly can make a difference. Please sign this petition today and urge our state leaders to take immediate action. Cats around the state need us.