Prohibits surgical declawing of cats and other animals.

S 1406 prohibits surgical declawing (onychectomy) of cats and other animals in New Jersey, except when a licensed veterinarian determines it is medically necessary for the animal's health. The bill requires veterinarians to document therapeutic justification (e.g., treating infection or injury) and submit a written statement to the Department of Health, while banning declawing for cosmetic or convenience reasons. Violations by individuals performing the procedure would be classified as disorderly persons offenses, and veterinarians failing to document properly face disciplinary action. This law directly affects veterinarians, pet owners, and animal care facilities by restricting declawing procedures to strict medical necessity.