As a dedicated resident of Boulder and a volunteer in animal welfare, I believe it is important for our community to address a significant issue affecting the well-being of our feline companions: the practice of non-therapeutic cat declawing. Boulder prides itself on progressive and humane values, and aligning our local policies with ethical veterinary standards is an important step toward preventing unnecessary suffering among cats. Cat declawing, also known as onychectomy, involves the amputation of the last bone of each toe. This procedure is not a simple nail removal but a major surgery, comparable to amputating a human finger at the last joint. When performed for non-therapeutic reasons, declawing carries serious risks, including infection, chronic pain, and long-term behavioral changes. It can permanently compromise a cat’s natural behaviors and significantly diminish their quality of life. Leading veterinary and animal welfare organizations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Humane Society of the United States, oppose declawing when it is not medically necessary. Numerous cities across the United States — including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Denver — have already enacted bans on non-therapeutic declawing while maintaining exceptions for legitimate medical need. These policies have proven effective and demonstrate that such legislation is both reasonable and enforceable. Prohibiting non-therapeutic declawing would prevent avoidable pain and suffering while encouraging humane, effective alternatives such as regular nail trimming, the use of scratching posts and behavioral guidance. These approaches preserve cats’ natural behaviors and strengthen the human-animal bond through understanding and responsible care. Boulder has long been at the forefront of sustainability, health, and community welfare. This commitment should extend to all residents, human and animal alike. This petition respectfully calls upon Boulder City Council to enact an ordinance prohibiting non-therapeutic cat declawing within city limits, while allowing exceptions when a licensed veterinarian determines the procedure is medically necessary for a cat’s health. By taking this step, Boulder can align with established best practices, protect animal welfare, and serve as a model for compassionate and responsible policy.