California Bill to Ban Cat Declawing Procedures Unless Medically Necessary Approved by Senate Committee

Assembly Bill 867, sponsored by Assemblymember Ash Kalra, was passed yesterday by the Senate Standing Committee on Business, Professions and Economic Development and has now been referred to the Senate Appropriations Committee. The measure previously passed the full Assembly in April.

The bill would prohibit the performance of tendonectomy, onychectomy, or any type of claw removal on a feline unless it is for a therapeutic purpose. Under the bill, “therapeutic purpose” is defined as addressing a physical illness, infection, injury, or condition that compromises the cat’s health, as determined by a licensed veterinarian. It specifically excludes procedures done for cosmetic or behavioral reasons.

If enacted, the legislation would authorize the California Veterinary Medical Board to take disciplinary action against veterinarians who violate the measure, including license denial, suspension, or revocation, as well as the imposition of fines.

The bill also clarifies that its provisions would not apply to any person performing surgery on their own animals unless the procedures are among those restricted. It preserves local authority by ensuring the bill does not override ordinances in place before January 1, 2026.

With increasing concern over the pain and complications associated with feline declawing, California joins several other jurisdictions nationwide seeking to restrict the practice.