Declawing is an invasive procedure that involves the amputation of a cat's third phalange. This process is not only unnecessarily painful but also can lead to a myriad of physical and behavioral problems in cats—from chronic pain to aggression. Despite this, declawing continues unregulated in many states, including Indiana.

As supporters of animal welfare, we call on Indiana State Veterinarians to leverage their influence and advocate for a state-wide ban on cat declawing. In countries like the UK, Australia, and Brazil, cat declawing is already considered animal cruelty and is therefore illegal. According to a study published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, declawed cats are seven times more likely to pee in inappropriate places, three times more likely to be aggressive, and four times more likely to bite people.

Indiana's cats deserve better. We believe that it's time for change, and we hope that the veterinarians of Indiana lionize this cause, bringing our state's animal welfare laws up to speed with that of more progressive regions. It is you, our trusted veterinarians, who can catalyze this overdue transformation.

Please stand up for Indiana's cats—support a state-wide ban on cat declawing. Sign the petition today.