Protect Your Cat's Skin: Best Sunscreens For Cats

Cats, just like humans, love to lounge in the sun. However, they can get sunburnt, and their dense fur coat might not always protect them from harmful UV rays. Repeated sun exposure and sunburn can lead to sore and damaged skin and even skin cancer. To prevent this, cat owners can apply sunscreen to their cats, but only products that are specifically designed for pets should be used. Human sunscreens contain chemicals such as zinc and salicylates, which can be toxic to cats.

Sunscreen application areas

When applying sunscreen to your cat, focus on the areas of their body that are most vulnerable to sunburn. These include:

• The nose
• Tips of the ears
• Belly
• Groin areas
• Anywhere with thin or no fur, such as between the eyes and ears

You should also consider applying sunscreen to any light or white patches of skin on your cat's body, as these areas are more vulnerable to UV light.

It is important to use a pet-safe, long-lasting sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Avoid products that contain zinc oxide or salicylates, as these can be toxic to cats if ingested.

If your cat has light-coloured skin above their nose, be sure to apply sunscreen to this area as well. Always follow the directions on the packaging for reapplication.

In addition to sunscreen, you can also use hats and caps to protect your cat's skin from the sun. However, some cats may become distressed when wearing these items, so it is important to not force them to wear anything that causes irritation.

Cat-safe sunscreen products

Cats, like humans, can get sunburnt and even develop skin cancer from repeated sun exposure. Therefore, it is essential to protect them from harmful UV rays, especially if they have white, thin, or no hair, which puts them at a higher risk. While a cat's fur typically safeguards them from the sun, areas with thin or no hair, such as the ear tips, face, and tummy, are susceptible to sunburn.

When choosing a sunscreen for your cat, it is crucial to select one specifically designed for pets, as human sunscreens contain ingredients that are toxic to cats if ingested. Here are some cat-safe sunscreen products to consider:

Bodhi Dog Moisturizing Sun Spray

This product is safe for both dogs and cats and comes in a non-aerosol bottle for easy application. It is made with natural ingredients like shea butter and jojoba butter and provides sun protection while moisturising your cat's coat. It has received positive reviews from pet owners, especially those with white dogs, for its effectiveness, lack of scent, and non-greasy formula.

Hemp by HOWND Skin, Nose and Paw Balm with Sun Protection

This dual-purpose balm protects your cat's snout, ears, and skin from UVA and UVB rays during the summer and keeps their paw pads soft and moisturised in the colder months. It is unscented, fast-absorbing, and certified cruelty-free and vegan. The organic hemp seed oil and calendula formula has been effective in preventing sunburns and treating cracked paws, according to pet parents.

Petkin Doggy Sunstick

The Petkin Doggy Sunstick is a convenient stick sunscreen that is easy to apply and perfect for on-the-go protection. It is non-greasy and contains titanium dioxide as its active ingredient to shield exposed skin from the sun. Pet parents have noted that their furry friends don't mind having this product applied, and it effectively prevents sunburn. However, the stick is small and may run out quickly for larger pets.

Nature's Specialties Sun-Guard Conditioner

Nature's Specialties Sun-Guard Conditioner is a dual-purpose product that can be used as a deep conditioner to detangle fur or a diluted spray to protect against sun damage. It helps prevent sun bleaching in darker coats and offers sun protection for both cats and dogs. While some pet parents are not fond of the scent, many agree that it makes their pets' coats softer and silkier.

Sit. Stay. Forever. Organic Sunscreen

This organic sunscreen is made with natural ingredients like raspberry seed oil, carrot seed oil, and olive oil, providing the highest SPF protection for your cat. It is safe for cats, dogs, puppies, and senior pets and is ideal for those with dry or inflamed skin due to its moisturising and restorative properties. Pet parents have chosen this sunscreen for its safe ingredients and effectiveness in keeping their cats' ears and noses sunburn-free.

Additional Tips

When applying sunscreen to your cat, focus on areas such as the nose, tips of the ears, belly, and groin, as well as anywhere with thin or no fur. It is also recommended to test new products on a small area of your cat's skin to monitor for any reactions, as cats may lick off the product. Additionally, always choose a cat-safe sunscreen, and avoid using human sunscreen, as it may contain ingredients toxic to cats.

Sunburn symptoms

Cats can get sunburnt, and just like in humans, repeated sun exposure and sunburn can lead to sore and damaged skin, as well as skin cancer. By the time you see signs of sunburn in your cat, there will already have been some ultraviolet damage to the skin.

The most common places to see signs of sun damage in cats are on the tips of the ears, the nose, and the areas between the eyes and ears, where the hair is thin. Sunburnt skin in cats can look pink or red, scabby or crusty. The tips and edges of the ears may appear swollen, and your cat might paw or scratch at the affected areas, or twitch their ears. They may also be reluctant to let you look.

Cats with severe sunburn may also become dehydrated, and heat can have a detrimental effect on all their body systems. If you think your cat has severe sunburn, contact your vet straight away.

• Skin that looks pink or red, and feels hot to the touch
• Fluid-filled blisters that may itch and eventually pop or break
• Broken blisters that peel to reveal tender skin underneath
• Swelling of the skin
• Weakness, confusion, or faintness
• Dry, itching, and peeling skin days after the burn

If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, it's important to get them out of the sun and contact your vet for advice. Severe sunburn can be extremely uncomfortable for your cat and, when combined with heat exhaustion and dehydration, it can even be fatal.

Sun protection alternatives

Sun protection is critical for anyone spending time outdoors. However, many people are looking to eliminate the long list of chemicals and other artificial ingredients found in mass-manufactured sunscreens. Here are some sun protection alternatives to consider:

Sun-Protective (UPF) Clothing

Sun-protective clothing is an excellent alternative to sunscreen, offering built-in protection from the sun's harmful UV rays. UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) measures how much an item of clothing blocks UVA and UVB rays. For adequate protection, opt for clothing with a UPF rating of 50 or higher, especially if you plan to spend extended periods outdoors or in strong sunlight.

Natural Oils and Butters

Some natural oils and butters provide a surprising level of sun protection while also offering skin-nourishing benefits. Here are a few options:

• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which blocks about 20% of harmful UV rays while also hydrating the skin. However, those with lighter skin tones may still experience some burning, and frequent reapplication is necessary.
• Raspberry Seed Oil: Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, raspberry seed oil can provide up to 50 SPF protection from UVB rays and 8-10 SPF protection from UVA rays.
• Carrot Seed Oil: Rich in beta-carotene and other anti-inflammatory substances, carrot seed oil is a powerful antioxidant that may offer an SPF of up to 40.
• Olive Oil: A common kitchen staple, olive oil provides an SPF of around 7-8 and is an excellent choice for those looking for a natural and edible alternative.
• Wheat Germ Oil: Derived from the kernel of the wheat grain, wheat germ oil is high in Vitamin E and is known to provide sun protection of up to 20 SPF.
• Shea Butter: Shea butter is a moisturizing fat derived from the nuts of the West African shea tree. While it offers minimal sun protection with an SPF of 3-6, it can be used as a bonus layer of protection for those who use it for its moisturizing properties.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is not just for treating sunburns; it can also provide sun protection. Certain aloe preparations can offer an SPF of up to 20, making it comparable to traditional sunscreens. However, effectiveness can vary depending on the source.

Dietary Choices

Protecting your skin from the sun can also start with your diet. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants and healthy fats can promote healthy skin that is more resistant to sun damage. Include colorful vegetables with carotenoids, green tea, and edible oils like coconut oil, which are high in omega fatty acids and other beneficial compounds. While diet alone cannot replace sunscreen, it can provide additional protection and help your skin recover from sunburns more quickly.

Skin cancer in cats

Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in a cat's skin. Cancerous cells divide and grow without following the body's instructions, often leading to the formation of a mass or tumour. Skin cancer in cats is most often found on the head, neck, trunk, or legs. It can also develop in areas with less fur, such as the belly, inside legs, and skin around the lips and eyes.

Types of Skin Cancer in Cats

While there are many different types of skin cancer in cats, the four most common are:

• Basal cell tumours
• Mast cell tumours
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Fibrosarcoma

Basal cell tumours occur in the basal layer of the skin, at the bottom or base of the epidermis (outermost layer). These tumours are usually firm and easy to move around with your fingers. They are more common in senior cats, especially Persians and Himalayans.

Mast cell tumours often occur as raised pink masses and are commonly found on the head, neck, and legs, with over half occurring on the head. Siamese cats are at a higher risk for this type of tumour.

Squamous cell carcinoma may initially look like scabs or thickened skin and is commonly found on the face, nose, and ears of white-faced cats. It is more prevalent in cats that spend a lot of time outdoors and are exposed to the sun.

Fibrosarcomas are tumours of the connective tissue and can be found anywhere in the body. They are more likely to occur where cats have had injections, such as vaccinations. These tumours are typically very firm and well-connected to the underlying tissue.

Symptoms of Skin Cancer in Cats

Causes of Skin Cancer in Cats

The most common factors that increase a cat's risk of developing skin cancer include:

• Sun exposure, especially in light-furred or hairless cats
• Genetics, with certain breeds more prone to specific types of cancer
• Chronic skin irritation due to underlying skin allergies or compulsive licking behaviours
• Physical trauma that disrupts skin cells and leads to scar formation

Diagnosis and Treatment of Skin Cancer in Cats

Veterinarians typically diagnose skin cancer through a physical examination, cytology (collecting cells to examine under a microscope), or biopsy (removing a small tissue sample). Treatment depends on the type, location, and size of the tumour, as well as the cat's overall health. Surgical removal is the most common treatment, followed by histopathology to determine the cause of abnormal growth. In some cases, radiation and chemotherapy may also be recommended.

Prevention of Skin Cancer in Cats

To reduce the risk of skin cancer in cats, limit their direct sun exposure during peak UV intensity, especially for white-faced cats. Use commercially available sunscreen products specifically formulated for cats if limiting sun exposure is not possible.

Frequently asked questions