This bill prohibits the surgical declawing of cats and other animals, specifically banning onychectomy and flexor tendonectomy procedures unless deemed necessary for therapeutic purposes by a licensed veterinarian. A person who violates this prohibition would be guilty of a disorderly persons offense, which carries penalties including fines of up to $1,000 and potential imprisonment for up to six months. Additionally, violators may face civil penalties ranging from $500 to $2,000. The bill also mandates that when a veterinarian determines such a procedure is necessary, they must file a written statement with the Department of Health and provide a copy to the animal's owner. Failure to comply with this requirement could result in disciplinary action from the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.

The bill defines "therapeutic purpose" as a necessity to address medical conditions affecting the animal's health, such as illness, infection, or injury, explicitly excluding cosmetic or convenience-based reasons. Furthermore, the bill amends existing law to include a new provision that imposes penalties for performing or causing these procedures in violation of the new regulations. This legislative change aims to protect the welfare of animals by ensuring that surgical interventions are only performed when absolutely necessary for their health.