If you're in doubt about the need to use sunscreen for dogs and cats, or if you don't know which one to choose and how to apply it, the following text will help you quickly and easily.
Do dogs and cats need sun protection?
Although most people use sunscreen to prevent burns and other harms caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays, many pets are still left unprotected.
Look out for signs such as: redness, scaling, hard-to-heal sores, nodules, thickened skin, itching and hair loss. Consult your veterinarian as soon as possible to prevent the progression of photo-induced diseases.
5 reasons to use sunscreen on pets
- Just like in humans, chronic sun exposure can cause solar dermatitis and skin cancer in dogs and cats, as well as aggravating autoimmune skin diseases.
- Despite the protection provided by the coat, including against UV radiation, the amount of hair varies greatly between breeds. In addition, in some areas of the body the coat is sparse.
- Animals with poorly pigmented skin and coats are more sensitive to damage caused by exposure to the sun. However, all animals can be affected.
- The harmful effects of UV radiation are cumulative over time. A sun protection routine helps prevent skin cancer in dogs and cats.
- Prevention is the best treatment! Restricting sun exposure prevents the appearance or worsening of sun-induced lesions.
What is the best sunscreen for cats and dogs?
First of all, it's important to remember that you can't use human sunscreen on dogs and cats.
A sunscreen for dogs or cats is formulated to suit the characteristics of pets' skin. In addition to effective protection, it must also be non-toxic, as pets can lick the product.
As for the type of sunscreen, chemical filters transform UV rays into heat through a chemical reaction. The disadvantage is that chemical filters are absorbed by the skin and present an allergenic potential and risk of toxicity.
Physical filters (mineral or inorganic), on the other hand, form a reflective barrier that prevents UV rays from penetrating the skin.
Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are the main types of mineral filters, with a broad spectrum of action, which means they reflect UVA and UVB radiation. Considered hypoallergenic and non-irritating ingredients, in the right concentrations they are used in topical products for dogs and cats.
How to apply sunscreen to dogs and cats?
Apply the sunscreen to areas with little fur, such as the muzzle, nasal planes, ears, belly, groin and armpits. Reapply every 2 hours.
When to apply sunscreen to dogs and cats?
Getting your pet into the habit of applying sunscreen is usually easier on hot days and outdoors.
However, it is important to continue protecting your pet on cloudy days or indoors, as indirect exposure to the sun is also harmful.
In addition, even with the use of sunscreen, it is recommended to avoid exposure to the sun from 10am to 4pm.
Know that including sunscreen in your routine will provide longevity and quality of life for your pet.
Discover a dermo-cosmetic that provides protection and hydration in a single product.
See more tips on essential pet care in summer, which go beyond sun protection.
