Hi, I’m Dr. Lauren! Read my introduction to learn more about me and my two adventurous cats, Pancake and Tiller.
Slip, slop, slap goes the popular Aussie saying, encouraging the use of sunscreen. As humans, thanks to massive public awareness campaigns like this one, we’ve become acutely aware of the dangers of sun exposure, and most people these days are working hard to make sure they’re using appropriate protection on the day.
But what about cats, some of whom spend a lot of time outside? Have you thought about your cat, and sun protection?
Most pet owners don’t really spend much time considering their cat’s sun exposure. And that in part may arise from the fact that sun exposure in cats can look very different than sunburn in humans. Also, they have fur, so many assume it will be completely protective.
In clinics during the summer months, many clients bring in cats with scabby ears, asking what brought them on. Or the top of their nose pad, or the bridge of their nose has dark dry rough lips, and also, a pet owner wants to know what’s causing it, because it’s recently which has been shown, in the last month or two. Did you know that these can be signs of sun exposure and skin damage in cats? Well, they are probably two of the most common signs of actinic or solar keratitis in cats: ie pathological sun exposure.
As we head into the hottest and sunniest months of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s great to raise awareness that cats can damage their skin in the sun, and even develop skin cancer. Because this skin cancer is fast-growing and locally invasive, it may require quick surgical responses, including removing the cat’s ears, or even their nose. White-haired cats, or those with light coats on sensitive areas such as the ears and face, appear to be particularly at risk.
As a cat owner, what can you do to help? So, consider keeping your cat indoors during the hours of the most direct sunlight to limit their UV exposure. When they are outside, offer them places outside where they can have shade, such as cubbies. Pet-safe sunscreen is becoming more readily available, so consider applying it to your cat’s sensitive areas, especially if they are at risk.
Easy solutions and an ounce of prevention are worth a pound of cure—especially in the case of feline sunburn. So the next time you slip, slip, slap, don’t forget that your feline friend could benefit from some of the same sun awareness!
