Cool cats wear SPF!
White cats and cats with pale ears and noses need extra protection from the sun in hot weather, as they’re at risk of sunburn and future skin problems. Here’s how to protect them with sunscreen.
Taking the time to get your cat used to sunscreen will keep them safe – and means you get to spend more one-on-one time with your feline friend.
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Buy animal-friendly sunscreen
Help your grown-up find pet-friendly sunscreen – it’s easy to find online. Some sunscreen contains perfume that can bother cats’ sensitive noses. And others contain toxic chemicals that can harm our pets. A cream that’s at least factor 30 will work best.
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Go slow…
Before you put sunscreen on your cat – spend a few days getting them used to the bottle. Let them look at it and sniff it while giving them treats. You could try gently touching their ears or nose, with the sunscreen close by.
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Time to apply!
Before putting sunscreen on your cat, make sure they’re relaxed and calm. If your cat likes a fuss, you could get a grown-up to gently hold or stroke them, while giving them treats. Start by squeezing a pea-sized amount onto your hand and wipe a very thin layer onto the front and back of both ears. Concentrate on the sticking-up part of your cat’s ears – no need to get cream inside.
When putting cream on your cat’s nose – apply an equally thin layer to the furry, top part of their nose.
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Find a distraction
Once your cat is wearing their suncream – distract them for a while, in case they try to lick or rub it off. Offer them treats, encourage them to play with their favourite toy, or give them some gentle strokes. Your cat will soon learn that sunscreen sessions are quickly followed by yummy treats, fun play or a fuss.
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No stress
If your cat is very frightened – or tries to run away – leave the sunscreen alone for a while. It’s important to keep cats safe from the sun, but there’s no need to cause them stress. Make sure your cat has plenty of shade and water on hot days – sunscreen or no sunscreen. When they’re calm, keep letting them look at and sniff the sunscreen bottle while rewarding them with treats. You’ll get there!
We hope you and your cat have a safe and super fun summer!