Rhode Island Bans Cat Declawing: A Major Win for Feline Welfare

In a major victory for animal protection, Rhode Island has officially banned cat declawing, joining a growing list of states taking action against this painful and unnecessary procedure. The new law—An Act Relating to Animals and Animal Husbandry — Cruelty to Animals (S.B.180A/H.B.5668A)—was signed into law in early July and restricts the practice of declawing cats unless it is medically necessary to address a specific health issue, such as cancer in the nail bed.

This legislative win was made possible by the collaboration of the Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF), Humane World for Animals, and the Paw Project, and by the leadership of lawmakers like Senator Melissa Murray, Representative William O’Brien, Senate President Valarie Lawson, and House Speaker Joseph Shekarchi.

“Declawing is painful, unnecessary, and inhumane. It’s no way to treat any pet,” said Senator Melissa Murray. “Fortunately, there has been growing awareness of the risks and cruelty of declawing.”

Why Declawing is a Cruel Practice

Often misunderstood as a simple nail trim, declawing is actually a surgical amputation that removes the last bone of each toe—equivalent to cutting off the tip of a human finger at the last knuckle. The procedure can cause:

• Nerve damage

• Chronic pain

• Lameness and arthritis

• Behavioral issues, such as litterbox avoidance or increased biting

Declawed cats also lose their primary method of defense and natural behaviors like scratching and stretching—activities essential for physical and emotional well-being.

The Broader Movement to End Declawing

Rhode Island’s new law follows similar legislation in Massachusetts, New York, and Maryland, along with bans in several cities across the country including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, and Washington, D.C. Other states, including Virginia, New Jersey, and California, are also advancing protective measures.

This shift reflects growing public and professional opposition to the procedure. According to a 2024 ALDF poll, 70% of veterinary professionals oppose declawing, and many clinics have adopted policies refusing to perform the surgery altogether.

Humane Alternatives Exist

For those dealing with unwanted scratching, humane alternatives are widely available:

• Regular nail trims

• Multiple scratching posts and pads

• Soft nail caps

• Positive reinforcement and behavioral redirection

When guardians are informed and equipped with the right tools, declawing becomes not just unnecessary—but obsolete.

At Ohio Animal Advocates, we believe that protecting animals from unnecessary suffering should be a top priority in every state. Rhode Island’s progress gives us hope—and motivation—to continue pushing for similar protections in Ohio and across the country.

We commend Rhode Island lawmakers and advocates for leading the way and hope to see other states follow suit. Cats deserve safe, pain-free lives—with their claws intact.