As a variety of news outlets have reported, this week New York became the first state to ban declawing cats. There is an exception for cases when declawing a cat would be medically necessary. While my discussions regarding pets are normally surrounding creating a pet trust, I have had my trusty cat for 16 of her 19 years on this planet. She and I have enjoyed a good long run together. When I adopted her from a shelter all those years ago, she had her claws. It was never a consideration to have her declawed and I’m glad to see that New York has taken this step.
Why Declaw Your Cat???
As the NPR story points out, cats are usually declawed to try and protect your furniture. However, declawing cats has been banned in most European countries, some Canadian provinces and some United States cities. (Denver, San Francisco and Los Angeles according to NPR). Animal rights activists have deemed the procedures “inhumane and unnecessary.” It’s not for the faint of heart when you read the descriptions of it. (It’s a lot worse than having your fingernails trimmed…)
In New York, veterinarians will face a fine of up to $1,000 for performing an unnecessary declawing procedure. The alternative, which advocates have recommended, is to provide a little training to your cat. If done correctly, you can refocus your cat to scratch on a scratching post or other acceptable surface.
Why Would A Lawyer Write About Cats?
Because I’ve had a cat for 16 years. Sometimes these stories crop up. And some of my clients want to create a pet trust. In fact, some of the more complicated pet trusts I’ve created have revolved around cats. I haven’t heard of a similar procedure being performed on dogs, so for now, this appears to be a feline issue.
Next Steps
If you are interested in a pet trust and don’t have a will yet, or if you have one and would like to add a pet trust to your existing one, call my office to set up a meeting and we can review the best options for you – (877) AMAYERS.
