I decided to do a version of our favorite space lizards that throws out most of the human-like characteristics. Instead, in this version they evolved as robust quadrupeds with tiny little manipulator arms that split off from their heavy forelegs.
Still intelligent, these Cardassians use their little arms to manipulate objects and can craft extremely delicate and intricate works with them. Females tend to have more muscle attachments on these smaller arms, giving them greater control and range, while males might have smaller manipulator arms but thicker forelegs and spurs that can still be used in combat. However, the small arms are very weak, and these Cardassians have to get clever if they need to carry anything heavy.
While they can rear up and use their forelegs to grasp larger objects, they cannot maintain that position for very long.
Traditionally, clothing was designed specifically so the wearer would have to get help putting it on; it emphasized the highly social/group nature of the species. Clothing that could be put on without assistance was taboo for a long time.
They do not get along easily with other species all the time, as Cardassians show their affection by roughly smacking friends their heavily armored forelimbs, or bumping them with their sides.
