§ 8-138. Declawing of cats prohibited.

(a)

Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, it shall be unlawful for any person to declaw a cat.

(b)

Notwithstanding the restrictions set forth in subsection (a) of this section, a person may declaw a cat only if:

(1)

The person performing the procedure is a licensed veterinarian;

(2)

Anesthesia is administered to the cat during the procedure; and

(3)

The procedure is medically necessary.

(c)

As used in this section:

(1)

Declaw means to surgically remove or alter the claw or claws of a cat by a surgical procedure such as onychectomy or tendonectomy, in order to prevent their normal functioning.

(2)

Medically necessary means that a procedure is necessary to treat or relieve physical illness, infection, disease, or injury, or to correct a congenital abnormality that is causing or will cause the cat physical harm or pain. Medical necessity does not include cosmetic or aesthetic reasons or reasons of convenience in keeping or handling the cat.

(Ord. No. 672-18, § 1, 7-16-18)