hygene

Question
I have a very large cat.  She is probably around 25+ pounds and so therefore cannot groom herself.  I bathe her occasionally to make sure her rear is fairly clean.  My question is this: her skin on her back is very sensitive.  When I pet her she nibbles on her foot as if her back is very itchy but she can't reach it.  Also, she has scabs that I assumed came from other cats (that I have taken her away from) but now i think it may be from dryness or her unability to clean herself.  Is there any way that I can clean or moisturize her skin that would help her have more comfort.  I have put her on a diet so maybe she will be able to take care of herself but it will be a ways down the line.  I just got her back from my ex (9 months later) and I want to get her dignity back and feeling better.  Thanks for any help you can give.

Answer
Hello,
Congratulations on your new family member!  Sounds like you are on the right road to help this kitty to recovery. Diet is number one.  Alot of skin problems are tied up with diet. I have found that Precise cat food, (reduced calorie formula)  can not only clear up alot of skin problems but also take the excess weight off fairly quickly.  I have a boy cat I had to put on this diet for weight loss and was very successful, even with free feeding.  There are products on the market that offer 'waterless' baths for cats, in the form of mousse type product as well as 'wipes' that can do some cleaning as well.  First, tho, do some good combing and brushing of the coat to loosen up any dead fur and any shedding undercoat.  Either use a comb, or a 'curry brush', which is an oval rubber brush you can slip your hand into and brush the coat, in the direction of growth, in short strokes to help remove that excess coat and also to stimulate and massage the skin.  Kitties LOVE to be brushed with a curry brush.  Check at your local pet shop.  (Ususlly run less than 6 dollars.  Money very well spent!)  Good luck with this kittty, she is lucky to have you to take care of her!
Thamk you, and hope this is helpful.