The Met Office has urged pet owners to apply pet-safe sun cream to dogs and cats during the current heatwave, a task that takes under a minute and could protect vulnerable animals from sunburn and potential skin cancer.
Why sun cream matters for pets
According to veterinary specialists at PDSA, animals can suffer sunburn, especially those with "light-coloured fur or any thin fur patches." They cautioned: "It can be extremely painful for them and can sometimes lead to skin cancer. Pets can develop skin cancer from sun damage even if they haven't been burnt by the sun."
The areas most at risk include the ears, nose, eyelids and belly. Owners should apply pet-safe sunscreen with SPF 30 or above, focusing on exposed regions with pale or sparse fur. Indications of sunburn include redness, itching, crusting, flaking and blisters.
What to look for and avoid
The PDSA further recommends that, should your pet display any of these signs, they're best kept away from direct sunlight while recovering. Serious burns warrant immediate veterinary attention.
The specialist also cautions against using human sun cream, warning that certain components can be harmful to animals. "For example, you'll need to make sure that sun cream for your dog does not contain zinc oxide or para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA)."
High street retailers like Pets At Home are presently stocking the BeLoved BeSunsafe Sun Protection Balm 60g, priced at £9.99. This particular balm, however, is designed exclusively for canine companions. For those seeking an alternative, Amazon currently offers the Nose Print Pet Sunscreen SPF 50 Spray at £9.99, reduced from £14.99, which is suitable for both felines and dogs.
Other precautions for pets and wildlife
The Met Office recommends that regardless of species, fresh water must be made available for all domestic animals and even garden visitors during hot weather spells. "Make sure that all pets, from dogs and cats to birds, rabbits and guinea pigs, always have access to fresh water to drink, adequate ventilation, and shade from direct sunlight," they said. "Don't forget the wild animals that visit our gardens - keep out a bowl of fresh, clean water for wildlife such as birds and hedgehogs."
According to the Met Office, animals must never be left unattended in vehicles, conservatories, outbuildings or caravans, even briefly, as this "can be fatal for them." They also suggest providing animals with cooling options, such as chilled mats, electric fans and frozen water bottles wrapped in towels. For those keeping rabbits and guinea pigs, extra shade can be created by draping damp towels over wire-mesh enclosures. The Met Office also noted that gently spraying a rabbit's ears with cool water can help regulate their temperature.
