Cool for cats: RSPCA says use suncream to protect feline friends in the sun
With another heatwave behind us and more sunny weather to come - and we all know how important it is to slather on the sun protection factor on those hot, sunny days. But have you ever thought about protecting your pets from those harmful UV rays?
The RSPCA is calling on cat owners to make sure their cats get the cream this summer - and use pet-safe sun cream when they’re spending time outdoors.
Cats with white or lightly coloured ears are especially at risk of developing skin cancer. The good news? Pet- safe sunscreen can help keep them safe. Watch Pearl having sunscreen applied with the help of some tasty treats at one of our RSPCA centres.
Our feline friends often love basking in the summer sun and soaking up the warmth - it helps them feel relaxed, comfortable and even supports their mood. But owners are being urged to help keep them safe - because not only can they find themselves with painful sunburn, but just like us humans, too much UV exposure can also increase their risk of skin cancer.
It’s especially common on exposed areas like the tips of their ears and nose, and it’s even more likely if they have white or light-coloured fur.
Rebecca Ashman, Head Vet for Operations, Partnerships And Prevention at the animal welfare charity, said “Cats can get sunburnt in exactly the same way as humans do, and exposure to the sun causes them all the same risks.
“To keep them safe, you can gently apply some pet-safe, waterproof sun cream - at least factor 30 - to the front and back of the tips of your cat’s ears and a bit on the furless part of their nose.
“Your cat might find this feels a bit strange at first, but take it slow and reward them with treats. It's important to make sure they are protected and this small act will help to keep them healthy - every kind of animal deserves our kindness this summer.”
The charity often sees cases of cats who have suffered as a result of sun damage - including Dave who is currently under the care of RSPCA Oxfordshire & Reading Branch while he looks for her new home. He had to have the tips of her ears removed due to pre-cancerous changes caused by previous sun damage.
Despite everything he’s been through, Dave thrives on affection, adores being around people, and is at his happiest when he’s getting plenty of fuss and attention. Once he’s fully recovered, he’ll be looking for the calm, caring home he so richly deserves.
Rebecca added: “Signs of skin cancer in cats include redness and soreness, especially on the tips of the ears, or crusting around the ears - so if you notice this, it’s important to take your cat to the vet.”
The RSPCA says there are other great ways to keep cats and other pets cool this summer too - including not leaving them in hot conservatories or outbuildings, making sure they have ample access to shade, constant access to fresh water and cool damp towels to lie on. Ice cubes in water bowls on very hot days is another useful tip.
For advice on keeping your cat safe this summer, visit the RSPCA website.
The animal welfare charity’s Cruelty Hurts, Love Rescues fundraising campaign coincides with the charity’s busiest time as heartbreaking cruelty reports peak over summer. The charity is urging people to support their work to help care for more cats like Dave.
