Sunny days are perfect for relaxing, and cats often agree, stretching out in warm, sunny spots indoors or outside. However, as much as cats love basking in the sun, their delicate skin can be at risk of sunburn, especially in areas with little fur. Cats can get sunburned when their skin is exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays for prolonged periods. Unlike humans, cats don’t have sunscreen to shield their skin, and their fur isn’t always an adequate barrier. Areas with little or no fur-such as their noses, ears, and the skin around their eyes-are especially susceptible to sun damage.
Cats that enjoy lounging on windowsills or spending time outdoors on sunny days are at higher risk. Glass windows don’t block all UV rays, so even indoor cats can experience sunburn under certain conditions. Recognizing sunburn in cats isn’t always straightforward, as their fur often conceals early signs. Cats with white or light-colored coats have less natural protection from UV rays than darker-coated cats. Cats that spend significant time outdoors, especially during peak sunlight hours, are at the greatest risk. Cats with pre-existing skin conditions or allergies may be more sensitive to sunlight.
The Risks of Sun Exposure for Cats
Repeated sunburns can lead to more than just temporary discomfort for cats. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a type of skin cancer, can develop in areas repeatedly exposed to the sun. This condition is particularly common in cats with white or light-colored fur and can appear as sores or lesions that don’t heal. Chronic UV exposure can cause the skin to lose elasticity and develop a weathered appearance. While this may not seem significant, it can contribute to discomfort over time.
The most common places for pets to get sunburnt are their ears, nose, eyelids, and tummy. They are especially at risk if they are light-colored (ginger/white) or have any thin fur or bald patches. If it’s sunny enough for you to need sun cream, your pet will probably need protection too - especially if they have patchy or thin fur.
Cats' skin is different from ours, which puts them at an increased risk of sunburn. The sun’s rays can be damaging to felines because they have a thinner epidermis (outer layer of the skin) and less subcutaneous fat (located just under the skin). A cat's skin is sensitive and susceptible to UV damage when exposed to the sun for long periods.
There are several things you can do to make your cat comfortable if they get sunburn. Apply a cool compress to the affected area for 5-15 minutes. You can also apply cat-friendly aloe vera gel or a honey-based cream. After a few days, your cat’s skin may begin to peel. Speak with your veterinarian about whether you can give your pet pain medication to relieve discomfort. Don’t use harsh chemicals on your cat’s skin. Though rare, cats suffering from sun damage may need hospitalization for supportive care. This can include fluid therapy, antibiotics, and wound treatment. If you notice visible changes of the skin, your cat is not eating, is lethargic, or is vomiting - contact your veterinarian immediately.
Specific Risks for Certain Cats
Certain cat breeds are at higher risk of sun damage. Cats with white or light-colored (cream or light gray) fur are more likely to get sunburn, heatstroke, dehydration, or skin cancer. These breeds include Siamese, Himalayan, and Persian. Breeds with the greatest risk of sun damage are those with thin or no fur coats, such as Bambino, Sphynx, Donskoy (Russian Hairless), and Peterbald.
Many cats love exposing their belly to the sun. However, due to it being a less furry part, it is more susceptible to sunburn. For obvious reasons, “naked” cats such as the Sphynx are particularly susceptible to sunburn. If you have a long-haired cat such as a Persian, it is likely you had to get its fur trimmed. Although necessary, it can expose their skin to dangerous UV-rays. Furthermore, certain skin diseases and parasites can lead to loss of fur and result in increased sun-sensitivity. Finally, scars from injury or surgery can also make the skin more sensitive to sunburn. In some cases, increased sun exposure can accelerate existing health conditions such as autoimmune skin diseases.
Just like humans, cats with lighter skin can get sunburned easier. Make sure your white cat has plenty of shade to retreat to outdoors. Sunscreen should be used as an additional measure.
Symptoms of Sunburn in Cats
The symptoms of sunburn in cats are similar to those of humans. They can range from reddening of the skin to inflammation, flaking, and scabbing. Sunburn in cats can also cause pain and itchiness. If your cat scratches itself excessively after lounging in the sun for a longer period, it can indicate sunburn. The scratched areas can be more accessible to bacteria, which can cause infection and even abscesses.
Solar dermatitis-also known as photodermatitis or actinic dermatitis-is a type of skin inflammation that comes from sunburn or too much UV light exposure over time. Symptoms range from mild pink or irritated skin in the early stages to crusty lesions and wounds in more advanced stages of the disease. Solar dermatitis is most common on areas of the face with thin fur-especially the tips of the ears.
How severe the condition is determines the signs a cat with solar dermatitis may show at the affected areas:
- Red or pink skin.
- Hair loss.
- Itchiness, scratching, or head shaking.
- Crusty or scaly skin, scabs, or wounds.
- Deformation or misshapen tips of the ears.
- Swelling or development of a skin mass.
Keep in mind that there are many other health conditions that can cause similar symptoms. It’s important to have your cat checked by a vet to determine what’s causing their symptoms so they can receive appropriate treatment.
Treatment and Prevention of Cat Sunburn
Sunburn treatment depends on the severity of the burn the cat has suffered. Treatment options include topical or oral steroids to relieve skin inflammation and antibiotics if the burned areas have become infected. The vet may gently clean or disinfect the skin. They will then apply a burn cream to the area. If the cat has suffered a full-thickness burn, the vet treats the cat in the hospital with IV fluids, daily cleanings of the burned areas, bandage changes, and, if the burn is very severe, skin grafts.
At home, pet parents should limit their cat’s exposure to sunlight when the rays are most intense. Allow the cat to sunbathe before 10 am and after 4 pm. Sunscreens formulated especially for cats can also be applied to the cat’s ears, nose, and near-hairless areas. Sunscreens should not be of the human variety because those products contain ingredients toxic to the cat’s liver.
A gentle misting with cool water may help relieve the pain of a sunburn, although this may require two people to accomplish. Ask the vet about any cat-safe sunblocks that can be applied to the hairless areas of the cat’s body. Do not use any products with homosalate, octyl salicylate, or ethylhexyl salicylate.
Preventative Measures
The best safety measure is to prevent sun exposure and thus limit UV damage to the skin. Here are a few tips that can help:
- Keep your cat indoors, or if they must go out, provide well-ventilated, shady areas to take cover. Try to avoid letting them outside at peak sunshine hours, from about 10 am to 4 pm.
- If your indoor cat likes to sunbathe in the window, consider closing the blinds or curtains to minimize direct sunlight exposure. UV protective window screens or solar shades, an awning, or other protective barriers may also help.
- Use a cat-friendly sunscreen on vulnerable areas like the ear tips and nose. Products made for cats are best. If a human sunscreen must be used, avoid zinc oxide and salicylate ingredients, as both can be toxic if ingested. Choose the highest UV protection you can, ideally 30+ or higher. Ideally, select fragrance-free, waterproof products. Apply sunscreen a short time before your cat will be exposed to sunlight.
Adjust Your Home Environment: For indoor cats, consider using UV-blocking window films or curtains to reduce the intensity of sunlight coming through windows. While cats love sun spots, they are unlikely to use shade sufficiently. As a precaution, you should additionally apply sunscreen to your cat’s nose, ears, and other exposed parts. Furless cats should be completely covered in sun lotion.
If your cat has a sunburn, take them to a cool spot and offer plenty of fresh water. This will cool them down from the inside. Some internet sources advise questionable methods such as applying yogurt or rich creams onto sunburned cat skin. Please avoid such home remedies; they can often cause or worsen inflammation.
In case of severe sunburn, consult a vet immediately. They can prescribe suitable salves and medication. Your cat might have to wear a collar for a while to prevent licking of sunburned areas.
Should you use sunscreen on your dog or cat?
When to Consult a Veterinarian
If you suspect your cat has a sunburn or if they show signs of skin irritation, consulting your veterinarian is important. They can evaluate the severity of the condition and recommend appropriate treatments or preventative measures. If your cat is showing any of the severe symptoms mentioned earlier, such as lethargy, vomiting, or visible skin changes, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Unless a cat is uncomfortable, has a serious wound, or has symptoms of illness or a medical emergency, solar dermatitis isn’t typically urgent. However, a vet visit should be scheduled as soon as possible because early treatment is best for preventing the development of skin cancer.