Expressing opposition to the use of onychectomy, also known as declawing, for elective surgery in cats.

Summary

Declares elective declawing of cats (onychectomy, tendonectomy, and other methods that disable claw function) inhumane and harmful. It defines declawing, documents physical and behavioral harms to cats and public-health concerns, cites professional and international opposition, and urges recognition and discouragement of the practice but does not create bans, funding, or new legal requirements.

• Declares elective declawing of cats inhumane and harmful to animal welfare.
• Provides a broad definition of declawing that includes surgical, chemical, mechanical, and tendon-modifying procedures.
• Distinguishes declawing from routine claw trimming and temporary nail caps.
• Documents physical harms (pain, nerve damage, chronic pain) and behavioral harms (litter-box aversion, increased biting, defense/balance issues).
• Cites public health concerns, including potential increased risk of cat bites to humans.
• References professional and international opposition and notes jurisdictions that have banned or discouraged declawing.
• Is declaratory: it records findings and policy statements but does not create bans, funding, or legal mandates.
• Intended to influence public awareness, veterinary guidance, and policymaking at local/state levels.