My cat sort of has a rash. She's fine, but I feel this condition isn't VET worthy$$..?

Question

I am a grateful "rookie" cat owner...

I adopted a cat a year ago- she is wonderful- good health/demeanor...But she's my 1st cat.
Lately she seems to be getting a rash just above her tail (extreme lower back/along spine).  she begs for me to itch it.  Her skin is dry all over really-
it seems she has a thinner coat the more I have had her.

I live in a condo- It's clean- I have a normal house cat....  there is really nothing out of the ordinary compared to every other cat owner have ever met..  Her litter is always clean.... I use "Fresh Step- Clumping litter"- empty 5 times a week at least...

But she itches all the time
THERE ARE NO FLEAS OR ANY OTHER BUGS (I AM POSITIVE!!!!)
As I notice her coat thinning..... all the while I have been noticing rash/acne spots on her- That made me give her a bath which helped for about 2 weeks. But now it's just as bad again.

The only 2 things I can consider at the moment are:
-Her skin dosen't react with the brand of litter I use.
-or she has some skin disease.

What are "HOT SPOTS?"
If they are what I think they are...... How do you prevent them from ruturning/spreading?

I will go see a vet- however I want a rough opinion before I go.   
Vet's are expensive- but necessary...... I would like advice on what I described prioir to going- this has to be a common thing.
Thanks.... hope that makes sense- please answer understandingly to my naive and thrifty pet ownership laurels.

Answer 1

go to the vets to be sure