A new law in Massachusetts, which went into effect on April 8, officially bans the practice of declawing cats and prohibits the sale of puppies and kittens under 8 weeks old. The law aims to protect animals from unnecessary harm and help alleviate overcrowding in shelters across the state, according to the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA-Angell).
With this new legislation, Massachusetts joins New York and Maryland in outlawing the declawing of cats. The bill was championed by Senator Mark Montigny. MSPCA-Angell stated that declawing a cat is comparable to amputating a human’s fingertips at the first knuckle, which can cause severe pain and long-term behavioral issues. In fact, the organization noted that around half of declawed cats experience complications post-surgery, often resulting in behavioral changes that may lead families to surrender the animal to shelters.
Additionally, the law addresses the sale of puppies and kittens. The bill, titled “An Act relative to the humane protection of animals,” prevents the sale of dogs and cats younger than eight weeks old, a practice that can lead to both behavioral and health issues for the animals. This measure is intended to make it easier for shelters to adopt out healthier and more well-adjusted pets. The bill, originally sponsored by Senator John Velis and Representatives Ted Philips and Jessica Giannino, also prohibits the sale of animals in public spaces such as parks, outdoor markets, and parking lots—areas where sick animals have sometimes been sold with no way for consumers to seek recourse.
The MSPCA-Angell emphasized that these new laws will not only improve the well-being of animals in Massachusetts but also help reduce the burden on already overpopulated shelters.
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