Victory! Nova Scotia Bans Declawing Cats

When it comes to the question of declawing an indoor cat, many people don’t realize that this isn’t just a small task. Declawing cats is a serious painful procedure in which the first digits of cats’ paws are removed, causing discomfort and pain long after the procedure is done. Sadly, this procedure can create balance and dexterity problems, and result in behavioral issues like aggression or not using the litter box.

As awareness regarding the dangers of declawing has spread, the practice has become more of a thing of a past as an increasing number of veterinarians refuse to declaw cats. Twenty-one countries and several U.S. municipalities have banned the cruel practice that is likened to amputating a human’s fingertips, and now Nova Scotia has become the first Candian province to join this progressive movement!

The new legislation will take effect in March 2018 after a three-month educational period. Declawing cats will only be permitted in the case of an emergency, such as an infection or injury.

Dr. Hugh Chisholm, Atlantic Canada director for the Paw Project and retired veterinarian who has been advocating against declawing cats, had this to say about the decision: “It’s a great day. I’m so proud of the Nova Scotia Veterinary Medical Association …You are amputating ten bones from ten digits on the paws of a cat, and if that doesn’t constitute mutilation, I don’t know what does … Now that we have this success in Nova Scotia, I will be contacting the other provincial veterinary associations to encourage them to do the same thing. I think it’s just a matter of time.”

Scratching is a natural behavior for cats that allows them to shed the outer layers of their growing nails while also marking their scent and establishing personal territory. Their claws are their first natural line of defense and are essential for balance and movement. If you want to prevent your cat from scratching furniture, there are many things you can do, including trimming their nails, placing scratching posts and mats in areas where your cats like to scratch, and using furniture tape (can be purchased at most pet supply stores) or diluted essential oils like lavender or citrus to deter your cat from scratching certain spaces. A little catnip and some positive reinforcement with your cat’s favorite treats can help redirect this natural behavior.

There are still some people who are unaware of the dangers of declawing cats, so please be sure to share this with your network!

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