Declawing cats, a procedure known as onychectomy, is often misconstrued as a simple procedure similar to nail trimming. However, it involves the amputation of the last bone of each toe. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) stipulates that declawing should only be a last resort after exhausting all other means of controlling scratching behavior. Yet, it continues unregulated in many American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) accredited hospitals across New York, leading to unnecessary harm and pain to our feline companions.

In European countries, declawing is considered inhumane and is illegal in many places. In fact, Canada, Australia, and several US states have also banned this procedure. Moreover, a study published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery (2017) found that declawed cats are more likely to have pain and behavioral issues compared to non-declawed cats.

As responsible individuals, we ask that AAHA-accredited hospitals across New York adopt a policy against the practice of declawing. It's time we treat our cats with the respect and care they deserve. Please sign this petition demanding the cease of cat declawing in AAHA-accredited hospitals across New York State.