Vets at Battersea have issued an important warning to owners of white-furred cats after an eight-year-old Domestic Shorthair stray named Buddy had both ears amputated due to sun damage. Buddy developed squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer caused by UV damage, and was taken to Battersea's Old Windsor Cattery in May.
Buddy's diagnosis and treatment
Vets found lesions on both of Buddy's ears. One ear was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, while the other contained pre-cancerous cells. To prevent future health issues, both ears had to be removed. Buddy's ears have now fully healed, and he went up for adoption last week.
Risk to white-furred cats
Battersea says cats with white or pale-coloured fur are more vulnerable to sunburn and sun damage, especially on exposed areas like ears and noses. The charity is urging cat owners to take extra precautions during the heatwave by applying animal-friendly sun cream to the tips of the ears and nose. Titanium dioxide-based sun cream is recommended, while products with zinc oxide should be avoided.
Advice from the cattery
Hazel Adams, who works at the Battersea Old Windsor cattery, said: “Buddy’s story is a serious reminder of just how devastating sun damage can be to our pets.” She added: “Providing plenty of shade and water, keeping cats indoors during the hottest parts of the day, and using animal-friendly sun cream are a few simple ways owners can reduce the risks and help their pets stay safe in the heat.”
Adams also noted: “Despite everything he has been through, Buddy has proven to be a gentle and affectionate companion. He has adapted remarkably well to life without his ears and while his hearing has been affected, it hasn’t stopped him from living life to the fullest.”
Buddy ready for adoption
Hazel added: “He is now ready to find a loving home that understands his unique needs.”
