# Criminal Law (GCR)

## Title 10. Crimes Against Public Health, Conduct, and Sensibilities

### Subtitle 6. Crimes Relating to Animals

#### Section 10-625.1

(a) In this section, "declawing procedure" has the meaning stated in Sec. 2-301 of the Agriculture Article.

(b) Except as provided in Sec. 2-313.3 of the Agriculture Article, a person may not perform a declawing procedure on a cat.

(c)

  (1) A violation of this section is a civil offense.

  (2) A person who violates this section is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000.

  (3) The provisions of this section may be enforced by:

    (i) any State or local law enforcement officer; or

    (ii) the local animal control authority for the jurisdiction where the violation occurs.

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Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)