Besides the physical mutilation a declawing can change a cat's emotions. A cat could become aggressive and mentally have a difficult time adjusting to a clawless life. Deprived of its claws, a cat may turn to its only other form of defense- its teeth. It is fairly common for a declawed cat to become a biter. They do this out of fear and frustration.
Scratching has a soothing, comforting effect that creates a tranquil disposition.
They do not repair themselves or grow back for many months. There follows a wooden lack of feeling, then a tingling sensation during the long convalescence. The cat must walk on the stub end of the second digit. Sometimes a claw grows back, but not in the normal way. Rather, they grow up through the top of the paw creating a bloody sore.