Sometimes the best intentions lead us down the wrong path—and for Khloe Kardashian, that realization came courtesy of two cats named Grey Kitty and Baby Kitty.
During the Wednesday, May 20 episode of her Khloe In Wonder Land podcast, the 41-year-old Kardashians star opened up about a decision she now deeply regrets: having her cats declawed. What Kardashian didn’t realize at the time was that she was making a choice the American Veterinary Medical Association“strongly discourages.”The procedure, which involves the surgical amputation of a cat’s third phalanges (toe bones) and attached claws, isn’t just controversial—it’s genuinely harmful to the animals who undergo it.
Kardashian’s candor about the mistake is refreshing. I was really misadvised about getting my cats declawed, she explained on the podcast, acknowledging that as a first-time cat owner, she simply didn’t know better. But ignorance doesn’t erase the consequences. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, scratching is a critical feline behavior that conditions claws, marks territory, enables self-defense, and provides essential muscle engagement. Strip that away through amputation, and you’re left with a cat experiencing acute pain that can turn chronic, behavioral problems, disability, and significant mutilation.
The fallout in Kardashian’s own home illustrates the real-world impact. Her declawed cats are now unable to defend themselves, which is why she keeps them confined indoors and fitted with AirTags. More troubling: both Grey Kitty and Baby Kitty have developed destructive behavioral issues, including inappropriate urination. Vets and breeders have told Kardashian they’ve never seen a cat continue the behavior for this long. It’s a painful reminder that surgical fixes for behavioral concerns almost always backfire.
The good news? Kardashian’s willingness to speak publicly about her regret contributes to a larger cultural shift. Several U.S. states have already banned cat declawing except for medical reasons, with California joining the list in January after new legislation passed in October. When someone with Kardashian’s platform admits a mistake, it sends a powerful message to pet owners who might otherwise follow suit. Her honesty doesn’t undo what’s already been done for her two cats, but it might spare countless others from the same heartbreak.
If you’re a cat owner, the takeaway is simple: invest in scratching posts, nail trimmers, and behavioral training. Your cat will thank you—and so will your furniture.
About the Author
Ava Hart
Ava Hart is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
