Though the process of cat declawing is less common than it was 20 years ago, it is a truly painful and traumatic process that takes away cats' primary defense mechanism and impedes their ability to climb and often causes lifelong pain. California has just joined New York, Maryland, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island in banning the practice, which is also illegal in 40 countries and dozens of American cities. Fewer than 20% of veterinarians will perform the procedure. If you live with a cat and you have considered declawing them, please don't.