The California State Assembly has introduced a ban on claw removal surgery for cats. The law will be further approved by the state Senate.

The reasoning for this decision was that cats’ claws grow straight from the bone – after surgery, animals experience prolonged pain that sometimes lasts a lifetime. At the same time, they may have a walking disorder, as well as a severe psychological condition.

Experts believe that this is a painful and dangerous procedure, and suggest that owners do not go to a surgeon, and accustom the animal to the scratching post. If necessary, claws can also be trimmed.

The law will set a total ban on these operations for “cosmetic or aesthetic” purposes. Claws can be removed only after a veterinarian’s decision if there is a real medical reason for doing so.