Hi @markhellemans
As a bit of a cat daddy that’s been around over a 100 cats and volunteered at a cat shelter I think you’ve nailed a lot of issues here.
If she was my cat I’d have a vet check to make sure there’s not an underlying illness that is making her lash out. If that was clear it sounds like she has bad things happen in her past with hands. She may get used to petting and not lash out but in my experience this could be a reasonably long road.
All cats need a scratching post unless their nails are regularly clipped as they can get long and splinter if not.
Most cats like somewhere high up to go as high places are usually where a cat goes for safety.
Not wanting or knowing how to play sounds like the owner doesn’t engage the cat tbh. So yes the cat may be bored especially as it’s not allowed to play outside either.
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