NORWICH – The Chenango County SPCA is applauding newly passed legislation that makes it illegal for cat owners to declaw their pet for non-medical purposes.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed the measure into law on Monday, effectively making New York the first state to ban the practice of declawing procedures on cats.

Proponents, including the Chenagno SPCA in Norwich, say the newly adopted law eliminates an archaic, unnecessary, and painful procedure.

“It's is a cruel thing for cats,” Chenango SPCA Director Anette Clark said, comparing the process to removing a finger at the top knuckle. “It's for the convenience of the owner, not the convenience of the cat. It's just not necessary.”