This Minnesota Senate bill (S.F. No. 1935) seeks to prohibit the elective declawing of cats. It defines "declawing" as any surgical procedure that removes or modifies a cat’s claws, except for trimming nonviable claw husks or applying nonpermanent nail caps. The bill also bans tendonectomies, which impair claw function.

Exceptions are made for medically necessary (therapeutic) procedures to treat infections, diseases, injuries, or abnormal conditions that threaten a cat’s health. However, procedures done for cosmetic reasons or convenience are not allowed.

Violators will face civil penalties:
- $500 for the first offense,
- $1,000 for the second offense,
- $2,500 for the third and subsequent offenses.

These penalties can be pursued through a civil action by the county attorney or attorney general.