Than you so much for mentioning rippled skin syndrome in cats. I had no idea that's what's been bothering my kitty for so long. Now I have an actual plan of action for helping her and it means a lot. Have a good day! :3
Ahhhhh! That is WONDERFUL! I am so so so so sooooo happy for you both! It can be really upsetting when we don’t know what’s bothering our little furry friends. They can’t talk, and we can’t explain to them that we don’t mean to hurt or bother them.
I’m not 100% sure that RSS is what bothers my Himalayan boy, I am uncomfortable saying that without an actual diagnosis from a vet which I do not have yet, but I can say that giving him a lion cut almost totally erased his behavior problems. Getting rid of all that sensitive fur and all the tugging mats eliminates the need for me to comb/brush him, which was becoming impossible because he was so sensitive. He would take out his discomfort on his siblings. It’s also made it easier for him to feel pleasant and positive touch on his forequarters, which has really helped his attitude.
A short cut is something I would tentatively recommend for someone whose cat has touch issues AND long hair that is prone to matting AND who cannot be easily groomed for whatever reason. That and rigorously respecting bodily boundaries and asking guests to please do the same. I do still pet him on the haunches, but I do so carefully.
Please drop by again sometime and let me know how your girl is doing!