Rhode Island becomes fifth state to outlaw cat declawing: Massachusetts, New York, and Maryland have also banned declawing of cats statewide. Several major cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Pittsburgh, and Denver, also prohibit the procedure. Virginia has also banned declawing with limited exceptions

June 27, 2025 6:28 am

Adam Zangari

The Rhode Island State House. (WLNE)

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — A bill outlawing the declawing of cats in the Ocean State passed into law on Thursday after it was approved by lawmakers on June 18.

Though the bill was not signed by Gov. Dan McKee, it will still take effect on Sept. 1.

The new law makes it illegal for any person to perform a declawing, also known as an onychectomy, which amputates the final done in each of an animal’s toes.

According to bill sponsors Melissa Murray (D-Woonsocket) and William O’Brien (D-North Providence), research shows the procedure has been shown to increase the risks for biting and aggression among house cats, and can also cause infection, nerve damage and back pain.

Any violators will face the revocation or suspension of their veterinary license.

The only exception to the law will be if the procedure is determined to be medically necessary to address any illness, infection, injury, disease or condition.

Rhode Island joins Washington, D.C. and four other states in enacting the ban.