Sunscreen for Pets: Protecting Dogs and Cats from UV Damage — Vet Tips for 2025 🌞🐶🐱

By Dr Duncan Houston BVSc, Ask A Vet Blog
Published: July 7, 2025

Did you know that your dog or cat can get sunburned just like you? ☀️ Pets with light-colored skin, thin or short coats, or areas of hair loss are especially vulnerable to UV damage—including sunburn, skin cancer, and solar-induced skin diseases like actinic dermatitis. 🧴🐾

🔎 Which Pets Need Sunscreen?

Consider sun protection for any pet with:

• 🐶 Light-colored skin or fur (especially white or cream)
• 🧥 Shaved or short coats (especially during summer)
• 🩺 Hair loss due to allergies, surgery, or cancer treatment
• 🐱 Cats with pink noses, ear tips, and lips
• ☀️ Pets who love sunbathing, especially on their backs

🔥 Common Sunburn Areas in Pets

• 👃 Nose bridge
• 👂 Ear tips
• 👄 Lips and surrounding skin
• 🩲 Groin, abdomen, and inner thighs (especially in sunbathing dogs)
• 🪞 Belly—when exposed to reflected light off pavement, water, or concrete

⏰ Best Ways to Prevent Sunburn

• 🕙 Avoid sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• 🏡 Keep pets indoors during peak UV hours
• 🧴 Apply sunscreen to exposed skin if outdoor time is unavoidable

🧴 Choosing a Safe Sunscreen for Pets

Not all sunscreens are pet-safe! Use only products that are:

• ✅ Labeled as safe for dogs or cats
• 🌞 Provide UVA & UVB protection (like human SPF 15–30)
• 🧼 Fragrance-free and non-staining
• 🚫 Do NOT include ingestion warnings or ingredients like zinc oxide or salicylates (toxic to pets)

💡 Some baby sunscreens may be safe—but always check labels or ask your vet before using.

🐱 Special Caution for Cats

Never use sunscreen on cats unless the label specifically states it is safe for cats. Many ingredients tolerated by dogs are toxic to felines. ❌🐱

🧴 How to Apply Sunscreen to Pets

• 🖐️ Apply generously to exposed areas—nose, ears, groin, belly, lips
• ⏰ Reapply every 2–4 hours, or after swimming or heavy licking
• 🧼 Distract your pet after application to minimize licking until it dries

👕 UV Protective Clothing

For pets who sunbathe or spend long periods outdoors, consider:

• 👕 UV-protective pet shirts or sunsuits
• 🐾 Lightweight, breathable fabrics that shield belly and back

⚠️ Signs of Sunburn in Pets

• 🔴 Redness or inflamed skin
• 🩹 Crusting or peeling skin
• 🧥 Localized hair loss
• 😾 Discomfort when touched

If you notice sunburn, contact your vet—prompt care reduces the risk of infection or long-term skin damage. 🩺

📱 Ask A Vet Can Help

Not sure which sunscreen is safest? Want help picking a protective shirt or checking for sunburn signs? Our veterinary team is here to help!

📲 Download the Ask A Vet app for expert advice on sun safety, product selection, and treatment for sunburned pets—anytime, anywhere. 🧴🐶☀️

✅ Sun Safety Checklist for Pets

• ✔ Avoid peak UV hours: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• ✔ Use pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas
• ✔ Protect with UV clothing if needed
• ✔ Watch for signs of sunburn
• ✔ Reapply sunscreen regularly outdoors

Protect your pet’s skin as carefully as you protect your own. With the right sunscreen and sun-safety habits, you’ll keep your furry friend safe all summer long. 🌞🐾

Visit AskAVet.com or download the Ask A Vet app for personalized support from licensed veterinarians. 📱🩺