SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) -- Cat paws are now protected in California after Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill banning declawing on Thursday.

The anti-cat declawing bill, AB 867, was championed by State Assemblymember Alex Lee (D-Milpitas). Lee wrote the bill with inspiration from his own beloved cats, named Udon and Soba.

"AB 867 marks a historic milestone for animal welfare," Lee said Friday. "This important legislation shows our commitment to protecting our cat companions. After years of pushing to make this a reality, I’m proud to see California create a more compassionate society for our feline friends by moving away from this inhumane practice."

The new law prohibits declawing a cat unless a veterinarian performs the procedure for a medically necessary purpose that benefits the cat’s

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