Cats can get sunburn just like humans. Cats with white hair, thin hair, or no hair are at the highest risk, as well as cats that spend a lot of time outdoors in the sun. Repeated sun exposure and sunburn can lead to skin cancer.
Applying cat‑safe sunscreen to vulnerable areas offers protection. Focus on areas such as:
- The tips of the ears
- The nose
- Patches with thin or no hair
When using a product for the first time, apply a small test patch and monitor for any reaction. It can also help to limit outdoor access during the hottest part of the day.
Important: Do NOT use human sunscreen
Human suncreams often contain ingredients such as zinc oxide and salicylates, which are highly toxic and can be fatal if ingested during grooming. Some also contain perfumes that can upset cats.
For more information, visit International Cat Care’s page: www.icatcare.org/articles/should-i-use-sunscreen-on-my-cat