Bill > HB2653

This bill prohibits veterinarians and other individuals from performing certain surgical procedures on cats that prevent the normal functioning of their claws, such as declawing (onychectomy), removing portions of the paw or digit, or cutting tendons that affect claw movement. The bill specifically allows exceptions for nail filing, nail trimming, and temporary nail caps. Medical procedures are permitted only when a licensed veterinarian documents that the surgery is medically necessary to address an existing infection, disease, injury, or abnormal condition in the cat's paw, nail bed, or toe bone, or when the procedure is needed to protect a cat owner or household member who has been diagnosed with a medical condition that could be worsened by cat scratches. Any person who violates this prohibition will be subject to a civil penalty of $500 per violation, which can be enforced by the attorney general. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and aims to protect cats from unnecessary surgical procedures that could compromise their natural claw function and overall well-being.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2653