Declawing Banned from Certified Cat-Friendly Veterinary Practices

It’s official. The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) has banned the elective declawing of cats in veterinary offices that receive certification as cat friendly establishments. Unnecessary declawing will join the list of things that have to be in place to officially be called a cat friendly office, including a cat-only reception and waiting area.

“Scratching is a normal and essential feline behavior that relieves stress and allows cats to fully stretch,” says the AAFP. Clients should be taught how to let their pets indulge in their natural instinct by encouraging them to use scratching posts and engaging them in various play and “hunting” activities so they will feel less anxious in their environments.