Sunscreen On My Pet?...Get Out!

As we approach Spring and Summer here in North Florida this question should be considered, but is seldom asked: Should sunscreen be used on cats and dogs?

Yep! The American Animal Hospital Association recommends the use of sunscreen in many animals. Animals that have light-colored noses and thin, very short, or missing fur are most in need of protective sunscreen, or sun block. The groin, inside legs, and belly can also need sunscreen since hair is very thin there, and UV light can actually reflect off of concrete surfaces to affect that skin. Additionally, dogs that lie on their back exposing their belly to the sun may need sunscreen. Pets who have suffered hair loss from allergies, hot spots, disease, surgical preparation, or radiation can benefit from sunscreen. If your dog’s coat is shaved so the she’s cooler during the summer, sunscreen may be helpful.

In pets, sunburn can appear as red skin or hair loss. Sunburn can irritate or worsen existing conditions, such as allergies or hot spots. Pets with light skin and short or thin hair coats are particularly prone to sunburn or skin cancer.

Sunscreen can especially be applied to the bridge of the nose, ear tips, skin surrounding the lips, and any area where pigmentation is light. The sunscreen should be fragrance free, non-staining, and contain UVA and UVB barriers similar to SPF 15 or SPF 30 for humans. The FDA has not established a test to determine SPF values specifically in pets.

Octyl Salicylate products should not be used on cats so check the label before you apply human sunscreen to your cat. There are some sunscreens produced specifically for pets, but using baby sunscreen is also an option. Most human sunscreens have ingestion warnings because the ingredients can be toxic if a child or dog ingests them, so if your pet is likely to lick it, look for a pet-specific sunscreen.

One thing to remember about sunscreen is that you need to use plenty of it, and you should re-apply regularly during sun exposure. It is recommended to use at least 1 tablespoon of lotion or cream for each body area treated! Sunscreen should be re-applied every 4 to 6 hours during the brightest time of the day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

So, get out there and enjoy the weather that is responsible for our living here! Do it with your pet. Do it with sunscreen on those pets that need it. Enjoy a long, active life, and keep your furry friend healthy to share it with you!

Doug McKee, D.V.M.

Clay-Duval Pet Emergency Clinic
275 Corporate Way, Suite 200
Orange Park, FL 32073
(904) 264-8281

Fleming Island Pet Clinic
4711 Highway 17 S
Fleming Island, FL 32003
(904) 264-7387