What is PAWS’ stance on declawing cats?
PAWS does not approve of declawing, a painful, surgical procedure that has long-lasting effects on cats. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, declawing is the surgical amputation of all or part of a cat’s toe bones and the attached claws. Once their claws have been removed, cats can no longer perform their natural stretching and kneading rituals. They become weaker as they age and may experience debilitating arthritis in their backs and shoulders.