BIG CAT PUBLIC SAFETY ACT

The Big Cat Public Safety Act, signed into law on December 20, 2022, bans private ownership of big cats and restricts direct public contact with them. It requires existing owners to register their animals with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and prohibits breeding, selling, and transporting big cats outside of accredited facilities. This law helps protect both animals and people by preventing neglect, abuse, and unsafe conditions. A major victory for animal welfare, the act ensures these magnificent creatures are no longer exploited for profit or kept in inadequate environments. 

DECLAWING BIG CATS

Declawing is a surgical procedure that removes the first joint of a cat's toes, permanently altering their anatomy. In both domestic and exotic cats, this procedure can lead to long-term health complications such as arthritis, difficulty walking, and increased risk of infections. Exotic cats, like tigers and cougars, rely on their claws for movement, climbing, and defense, making declawing especially detrimental to their overall well-being. Domestic cats may develop behavioral issues, including altered gait and avoidance of using their litter box due to discomfort. Instead of declawing, cat owners are encouraged to use alternatives like regular nail trimming, scratching posts, and soft nail caps to manage scratching behavior in a way that preserves the cat's natural function and health.