The proposed bill aims to prohibit the declawing of cats by veterinary professionals in Washington State, with the exception of cases where the procedure is deemed necessary for therapeutic purposes. A new section is added to chapter 18.92 RCW, establishing that any declawing procedure is unlawful unless it addresses a medical necessity related to an infection, disease, injury, or abnormal condition affecting the cat's health. The bill also defines what constitutes a "declawing procedure" and clarifies that it does not include non-invasive practices such as nail filing or trimming.

Additionally, the bill preempts any local ordinances that may regulate the practice of declawing, ensuring a uniform state-wide prohibition. The definitions provided in the bill specify that "cat" refers to domesticated species of the family Felidae, and it outlines the conditions under which a declawing procedure may be considered therapeutic. Overall, the legislation seeks to protect the welfare of cats by limiting surgical interventions that are not medically necessary.