Bill > HB201

This bill prohibits the surgical removal of cat claws, known medically as onychectomy or phalangectomy, except when necessary to address a specific medical condition that compromises the cat's health. The legislation makes it illegal to remove a cat's claws for cosmetic, aesthetic, or convenience reasons, and establishes a graduated civil penalty system for violations: a first violation will result in a $500 fine, a second violation carries a $1,000 fine, and any subsequent violations will incur a $2,500 fine. The bill is designed to protect cats from unnecessary surgical procedures that can cause pain and potentially impact their natural behaviors, with an effective date of January 1, 2026. By creating a legal framework that distinguishes between medically necessary and elective claw removal, the bill aims to promote more humane treatment of cats and prevent procedures that are primarily done for human convenience.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_status.aspx?lsr=0031&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB201