Introduction

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If New York State Assembly member Linda Rosenthal, a Democrat, and State Senator Joseph Griffo, a Republican, have their way, New York could become the first state to ban the declawing of cats. The procedure is illegal in most European countries, and carries a yearlong prison sentence, or a $20,000 fine in Israel. Veterinarians in New York oppose the bill, saying that the decision should be left to pet owners and medical professionals.

Should it be illegal to declaw your pet cat?