Bans on Cat Declawing Spreading

by Dr. Chris

November 9, 2009 Just last week the Santa Monica City Council voted 6-1 to ban declawing of cats in Santa Monica, CA. This follows a ban that was passed by the West Hollywood City Council. Now the measure has to have a final reading in December, but it will likely stay in place.

This is a very volatile issue for some people who view declawing as an inhumane procedure and one that leaves that cat permanently scared and unable to defend itself.

I am against the ban on declawing of cats because the ultimate decision should be up to the owner and the veterinarian, not some strangers in city hall who don't know you, your cat, or your veterinarian.

While opponents point to many cases of cat health problems after declawing, the problems are actually few in number.

Here is why I believe declawing should be left up to the owner and the vet:

1. It is often used as a last resort in behavior problems
2. Without this option many owners will abandon their cats
3. This will discourage people from getting cats

As is so often, the people who think they are protecting animals, often end up hurting them, PETA being the biggest example of this.

This item is on the City Council's agenda for the November 10th meeting. To contact the city council Phone: (310) 458-8201, Fax: (310) 458-1621, to email all Councilmembers: council@smgov.net