Virginia governor signs bill banning cat declawing, effective in July

(WSET) — Declawing cats will soon be illegal in Virginia.

According to the bill signed by Governor Glenn Youngkin, it "Makes unlawful the practice of declawing cats for any person engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine except as necessary for a therapeutic purpose."

According to a PETA representative, declawing involves not just the removal of the nail but “actually the amputation of the first digit of every paw.”

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There are some exceptions to the law, like a disease, abnormal condition, or medical necessity.

The bill was proposed by Delegate Marty Martinez (D-29th District) and passed the House of Delegates on a 58 to 41 vote, and the Senate on a 25 to 13 vote.

The law goes into effect in July.