New York First State to Ban Cat Declawing

In July 2019 New York became the first US state to ban cat declawing. The law has already gone into effect, and provides for fines up to $1,000, but does allow exceptions for medical necessity. According to governor Andrew Cuomo, "By banning this archaic practice, we will ensure that animals are no longer subjected to these inhumane and unnecessary procedures."

Read more details about the development of the law to ban declawing in cats in the New York Times. 

Additional information on scratching and other behavioral problems in cats can be found in the Merck Veterinary Manual.