01/14/2026
Join us in supporting HB 1904! Prohibiting the Declawing of Cats in Washington State (2025–26 Session)
Overview - House Bill 1904 would prohibit the declawing of cats in Washington State except when medically necessary for therapeutic purposes, while preserving veterinary discretion to treat injury, disease, or abnormal conditions. The bill establishes a clear, statewide standard that aligns Washington with modern veterinary science and humane animal welfare practices.
Why This Matters - Declawing is not a simple or cosmetic procedure. It involves the amputation of the last bone of each toe and is associated with chronic pain, infection, behavioral changes, and increased relinquishment to shelters. These outcomes negatively impact animal welfare, public trust, and already strained shelter systems.
Key Provisions of HB 1904
• Prohibits declawing except when medically necessary
• Preserves veterinary judgment for legitimate medical treatment
• Excludes non-invasive care such as nail trimming or nail caps
• Establishes statewide consistency
• Includes reasonable enforcement and recordkeeping standards
Animal Welfare &; Community Impact - Preventing unnecessary declawing helps reduce pain-related behavior issues, supports long-term pet retention, decreases shelter intake, and promotes humane, science-based standards of care across Washington.
Balanced & Responsible Approach - HB 1904 does not interfere with legitimate veterinary care. It allows declawing when medically necessary, ensuring animals receive appropriate treatment while preventing procedures performed for convenience.
Recommendation - Animal welfare organizations strongly support HB 1904 and urge policymakers to advance this humane, balanced, and science-based legislation.