Khloe Kardashian Faces Criticism for Decision to Declaw Cats
Khloé Kardashian is reflecting on her regrets regarding her two cats, Grey Kitty and Baby Kitty.
The Kardashians star, 41, shared her thoughts on the Wednesday, May 20, episode of her “Khloé In Wonder Land” podcast, revealing that she had her pets declawed. This controversial practice, which involves the “surgical amputation of all or part of a cat’s third phalanges (toe bones) and attached claws,” is “strongly discouraged,” as outlined by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
“I was really misadvised about having my cats declawed,” Khloé said. “I had never owned cats before, and I didn’t even know that was a possibility. I feel genuinely terrible that I went down this path. I believe that’s why my cats are unhappy, and I take responsibility for that.”
She continued, “My cats wear AirTags. They aren’t even allowed near a door. I’m so afraid they might escape since they can’t defend themselves. Losing their natural protective tools makes me really sad.”
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, they “strongly discourage veterinarians from performing onychectomy, tenectomy, or other surgeries aimed at preventing normal claw use unless it’s medically necessary.”
The AVMA emphasizes that “scratching is a natural behavior for cats that conditions their claws, serves as a territorial mark, enables self-defense, and promotes healthy muscle engagement through stretching. The amputation or surgical alteration of the distal digits is a painful process that may lead to chronic pain, maladaptive behavior, disabilities, and significant mutilation.”
Several states in the U.S. have prohibited cat declawing unless for medical reasons. California joined this growing list in January after passing new legislation last October.
Khloé first introduced Grey Kitty to the public in a November 2022 Instagram post featuring her and her daughter True, 8, dressed as cats. In April 2024, the Good American co-founder announced that she had welcomed another kitten into her home. (Khloé also shares son Tatum, 3, with ex Tristan Thompson.)
During the podcast episode, Khloé discussed her pet issues at home after introducing Baby Kitty to the family.
“I have two mischievous cats,” she remarked. “Grey Kitty was perfect—an absolute angel. So, what did I decide? We needed to get True a second cat because she wanted one. I got Baby Kitty for True’s sixth birthday. But after Baby Kitty arrived, Grey Kitty started peeing on one of the beds to express her discontent and displeasure at the new addition. I thought having two cats would be fantastic—definitely a misjudgment.”
“Then I realized Baby Kitty began mimicking Grey’s behavior, which caused even more chaos, and I ended up blaming Grey Kitty,” Khloé added. “I had to set up cameras to determine which cat was responsible.”
“Grey Kitty has returned to being a perfect angel, while Baby Kitty is acting like a little demon. What do I do? I can’t live like this,” she expressed. “The vet and the breeder have all given me suggestions, but if Baby Kitty’s not happy, I’m at a loss. So here I am, managing an animal circus.”
