As far as scratching you goes, you could invest in those "Soft Paws" if they sell them there. They're like fake fingernails for cats. You glue them on and they keep the cat from being able to claw furniture or whatever. But if he hates to be brushed, he might be even worse about trying to put soft paws on him.

One of my cat gets matted hair. I will snip it off as best I can. I wait until he's lazy and comfortable and then, just go for it before he knows what I'm doing. I also try to brush him like that, just a little at a time.

Becky