Minnesota HF1857 prohibits elective declawing of cats and imposes civil penalties for violations.

Minnesota HF1857 makes elective declawing of cats illegal. The bill defines "declawing" as any surgical procedure to remove or modify a cat's claws, excluding routine nail trimming. Exceptions are made for procedures performed solely for therapeutic purposes to address health issues. Violators face civil penalties, starting at $500 for the first offense, increasing to $2,500 for subsequent violations. These penalties can be enforced through civil actions by county attorneys or the attorney general.

Minnesota HF1857 prohibits elective declawing of cats and imposes civil penalties for violations.

Minnesota HF1857 makes elective declawing of cats illegal. The bill defines "declawing" as any surgical procedure to remove or modify a cat's claws, excluding routine nail trimming. Exceptions are made for procedures performed solely for therapeutic purposes to address health issues. Violators face civil penalties, starting at $500 for the first offense, increasing to $2,500 for subsequent violations. These penalties can be enforced through civil actions by county attorneys or the attorney general.