Sunburn

Like humans, pets can get sunburnt, particularly in areas with thin fur or no pigmentation. Repeated sunburns can increase the risk of skin cancer, especially squamous cell carcinoma. White or light-coloured pets and those with thin coats are at highest risk.

High-Risk Pets:

• White or light-coloured dogs and cats
• Hairless breeds (Sphynx cats, Chinese Crested dogs)
• Short-coated breeds
• Animals with pink skin or noses
• Pets with thin fur due to allergies or medical conditions
• Pets that have been recently shaved

Vulnerable Areas:

• Nose and face
• Ear tips
• Belly (from sun reflection off concrete or sand)
• Areas with thin fur
• Areas around surgical sites or with hair loss

Symptoms:

• Redness of the skin
• Tenderness to touch
• Dry, cracked skin
• Hair loss
• Blistering in severe cases
• Excessive licking or scratching of affected areas

Action Steps:

1. Move your pet to a shaded, cool area.
2. Apply a cool, damp cloth to the affected area.
3. Contact your veterinarian for treatment recommendations.
4. Use pet-specific sunscreen for future outings (never use human sunscreen containing zinc oxide or para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), which are toxic if ingested).