Sun danger to cats’ ears

Sir,

Cats Protection is advising cat owners to be aware of the risks posed to their cat by the sun.

Pale-coloured cats, or those with unpigmented white noses or ears, are particularly at risk from the sun’s rays which can cause sunburn and skin cancer.

Those affected can suffer long-term damage including, in severe cases, having to have their ear tips removed to prevent the cancer from spreading.

Following a few simple tips, owners can help to protect their cat from the harmful effects of the sun.

These include keeping them indoors on sunny days between 10am and 3pm, asking your vet for advice about suitable sunscreen and ensuring you provide plenty of shade to enable your cat to shelter from the sun’s rays.

Dr Sarah Elliott, Central Veterinary Officer, Cats Protection.