Pet Sun Safety: Prevent Sunburn & Skin Damage in Dogs & Cats

As summer in Minnesota slowly approaches, it's important to understand how sun exposure can affect your pet and how you can keep them safe and comfortable. Just like humans, our pets are susceptible to the effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays, too much direct sunlight can lead to sunburn. While fur provides some level of protection, some areas (like the nose, ears, belly and spots with thin or light-colored fur) are most vulnerable. It’s important to be on the lookout for signs of sunburn so serious complications can be prevented.

Recognizing the Signs of Sunburn in Pets

Common Signs of Sunburn:

Red, inflamed skin - areas affected might appear warm, extra sensitive or swollen.
Dry, peeling areas - sunburn can cause a pet’s skin to crack or flake.
Unexplained whining or increased sensitivity to touch - you may notice your pet whining, wincing or avoiding touch in certain areas.
Blisters or sores - a severe sunburn can cause blistering, which could lead to infection if not treated.

Long-Term Risks of Sunburn in Cats & Dogs:

Skin Cancer: Some skin cancers, like squamous cell carcinoma and hemangiosarcoma, have been linked to prolonged sun exposure. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), skin tumors are one of the most common types of tumors in pets. Around 30-40% of all tumors in dogs and 25% in cats are found on the skin.
Chronic Pain & Infection: Sunburned skin is not just painful but it is also more likely to get infected if left untreated. Cracks and blisters on the skin allow bacteria to get in, leading to secondary infection.
Premature Aging & Skin Damage: Just like in humans, sun exposure increases the rate of skin aging in pets. Signs of this include dryness, and a decrease in elasticity over time.

How to Protect Your Pet from the Sun

Sun protection isn’t just for summer—our pets can get sunburned on cloudy days or in snowy conditions where UV rays reflect off the surface. By incorporating these sun safety tips into your pet’s normal routine, you can help keep their skin healthy and make sure they are able to enjoy time outdoors without discomfort.

1. Provide Your Pets with Shade & Limit Peak Sun Hours
The sun is strongest between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM. If your dog or cat must be outside during this time, make sure they have access to plenty of shade, like trees and bushes, a patio umbrella, or pet-friendly sunshade.

2. Apply Pet-Safe Sunscreen
Not all sunscreens are safe for pets, so be sure to use vet-approved sunscreen made specifically for animals. Avoid products that contain zinc oxide or para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), as these ingredients are toxic to pets. Apply sunscreen to the most vulnerable areas like the nose, ears, belly, and thin fur areas. The Spruce Pets breaks down a bunch of potential options to consider when choosing a sunscreen.

3. Try UV Protective Clothing
If you have a cat or dog who is prone to sunburn (like hairless breeds, light-colored pets or one with thin fur), UV-blocking pet shirts, lightweight bodysuits, and visors are available to provide an extra layer of protection. These are a great option for pets who like taking part in outdoor activities with their owners during the summer months.

4. Keep Your Pet Hydrated
Dehydration makes heat and sun exposure even more dangerous. Always make sure your pet has access to fresh, clean water, and it’s not a bad idea to offer cooling treats like frozen broth cubes, homemade “pupsicles,” or frozen Churu treats as an easy option.

5. Protect Their Eyes with UV-Blocking Goggles
For pets that spend a lot of time outdoors, especially on boats, beaches, or wide open spaces, UV-blocking goggles help protect sensitive eyes from harsh sunlight. The American Kennel Club has a recent article that talks about the importance of eye protection for pets.

6. Regularly Check for Signs of Skin Damage
Regular skin checks can help notice early signs of sunburn, irritation or abnormal growths. If you notice any redness, sores or unusual bumps, you should contact your primary vet or a veterinary dermatologist for further evaluation.

Breeds Most at Risk for Sunburn

Short-haired breeds like Boxers, Dalmatians, and Pit Bulls
Hairless breeds such as the Chinese Crested and Sphynx Cats
Light-colored pets with thin or sparse fur
Dogs that love sunbathing (e.g., Bulldogs, Whippets)

What to Do if Your Pet Gets Sunburned

Move them to a cool, shaded area, or indoors, as soon as possible.
Apply cool compresses (not ice) to affected areas to reduce inflammation and heat. Using ice can cause further irritation, so be sure to use a cool, damp cloth.
Use pet-safe aloe vera to soothe minor burns. Check that it is safe for cats and dogs and doesn't contain ingredients like alcohol or lidocaine, both of which are toxic to pets.
Consult a veterinary dermatologist or your primary vet if your pet’s sunburn appears serious or isn’t healing right, a specialist in pet skin health can look closely at the damage and recommend the best treatment plan.

Sun-Related Skin Cancer in Pets: The Numbers

Around 33 million dogs develop some form of cancer each year in the U.S. alone. Of these, 30-40% of the tumors occur on the skin (AVMA).
6 million cats are diagnosed with cancer each year, with 25% being skin tumors. Sadly, 50-65% of these tumors are malignant, meaning they can spread and become life-threatening for cats.
Sun-related skin cancers, like squamous cell carcinoma, are most common in pets with prolonged sun exposure, and/or dogs and cats that are light-colored, short-haired or hairless.

How We Can Help

Your pet depends on you to keep them safe, and that includes keeping them safe from the sun. By providing shade, using pet-safe sunscreen, and staying on top of signs of sunburn or unusual skin changes, you can help prevent serious health issues. At Haarstad Veterinary Dermatology, we specialize in pet skin health and provide expert care, including advanced therapies (surgical laser, cryosurgery, testing, etc), skin cancer detection, and long-term UV protection strategies. If you’re concerned about your pet’s skin, schedule a consultation with us to ensure they receive the best possible care.