As summer temperatures rise and outdoor activities fill the calendar, many pet owners don’t realize that dogs and cats can get sunburned too. Just like people, pets are vulnerable to UV damage, skin irritation, and even serious health risks like skin cancer from too much sun exposure.
Fortunately, there are simple, effective, and safe ways to protect your pets from harmful UV rays — including natural, lick-safe sunscreens formulated just for animals. In this post, we’ll break down what every pet parent should know about sun safety for both dogs and cats.
Can Pets Really Get Sunburned?
Yes — both dogs and cats can suffer from sunburn. While fur offers some natural protection, it’s not enough for certain breeds or areas of the body where hair is thin or absent. Pets with white or light-colored coats, thin fur, sparse hair, or areas of exposed skin are especially at risk.
Sunburn can occur after as little as 30 to 60 minutes of unprotected sun exposure, and damage is often most severe on:
Ears and ear tips
Nose and snout
Eyelids and lips
Belly and groin
Armpits and inner thighs
Areas with shaved or recently trimmed fur
Even indoor pets who love lounging near sunny windows can be at risk due to UV exposure through glass.
Health Risks of Sun Exposure: More Than Just a Burn
Beyond the immediate discomfort of red, irritated skin, repeated UV exposure can have long-term consequences for pets. Prolonged sun damage can lead to several serious skin conditions, including:
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Malignant Melanoma
Hemangiomas
Hemangiosarcomas
Veterinarians have documented cases of solar-induced skin cancers, especially in pets who love to sunbathe belly-up or spend long hours outdoors. Both cats and dogs with light skin and hair are especially vulnerable.
Breeds Most At Risk for Sunburn
Dogs:
Dalmatians
Boxers
Pit Bulls
Bull Terriers
Staffordshire Bull Terriers
Whippets
Italian Greyhounds
Chinese Cresteds
Xoloitzcuintlis (Mexican Hairless Dogs)
Poodles (white and apricot varieties)
Cats:
Sphynx (hairless cats)
Peterbald
Donskoy
Elf Cat
Bambino
Devon Rex and Cornish Rex (sparse-coated)
White or light-colored domestic short-haired cats
For both species, pets who live at higher elevations — where UV radiation is stronger — face even greater risk.
How to Tell if Your Pet is Sunburned
Common signs of sunburn in dogs and cats include:
Red or pink skin
Swelling or tenderness
Dry, flaky, or scaly patches
Hair loss in affected areas
Excessive licking or scratching
Blisters or sores (in severe cases)
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian promptly. Early treatment is important to prevent secondary infections or more serious complications.
Treating Sunburn in Pets
For minor sunburn, your veterinarian may recommend:
Cool compresses applied gently to the affected area
Pet-safe aloe vera gel (without alcohol or additives)
Coconut oil for moisturizing and soothing
Vitamin E supplements (only under veterinary guidance)
For moderate to severe sunburns, or if your pet develops blisters or skin lesions, professional veterinary care is essential. Prescription creams, antibiotics, or other medications may be needed.
The Best Way to Protect Your Pet: Prevention
The safest approach to sun protection is simple:
Avoid outdoor activity during peak UV hours (10 AM – 4 PM).
Always provide shade and plenty of fresh water.
Use sun protection clothing such as UV-blocking shirts, bodysuits, and hats.
Apply pet-safe sunscreen to exposed areas.
Why Most Sunscreens Are Unsafe for Pets
Many human sunscreens contain ingredients that are toxic to pets, especially when ingested (and both dogs and cats will instinctively lick). Ingredients to avoid include:
Zinc oxide (can cause hemolytic anemia if ingested)
Salicylates, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, benzophenones, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate
Fragrances and essential oils
Chemical UV filters like oxybenzone and avobenzone
While some baby sunscreens may be somewhat safer (if zinc-free and fragrance-free), the safest choice is a sunscreen specifically formulated for pets.
The Science Behind Natural Pet Sunscreens
Unlike synthetic products, scientific peer-reviewed research has shown that red raspberry seed oil and carrot seed oil provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. These natural plant oils also deliver powerful skin-healing benefits, making them ideal for pets with sensitive or damaged skin.
Red Raspberry Seed Oil: Offers natural SPF properties, is rich in antioxidants, and supports skin healing.
Carrot Seed Oil: Contains natural UV-absorbing compounds and helps nourish dry or irritated skin.
Even better, these oils are among the very few ingredients that remain completely safe for pets, even if licked — making them ideal active ingredients for sunscreens designed specifically for dogs and cats. While natural oil-based sunscreens do offer effective protection, they are not intended to replace full-day, intense sun exposure.. Instead, they serve as excellent everyday protectant, while also deeply nourishing and healing the skin and coat.
At Sit. Stay. Forever., we use organic red raspberry seed and carrot seed oils as the foundation of our dog and cat sunscreen formula — providing natural protection you can trust.
Don't Forget: Heatstroke Is Also a Risk
Beyond sunburn, heatstroke poses a serious threat during hot weather. Always ensure your dog or cat:
Has plenty of cool, fresh drinking water
Has access to shaded or air-conditioned spaces
Is never left inside a parked car
The Bottom Line
Yes — dogs and cats can absolutely get sunburned. But with awareness, prevention, and safe products, you can protect your pets and let them safely enjoy the summer sun.
Avoid peak sun hours
Use shade, clothing, and pet-safe sunscreen
Look for natural, science-backed ingredients like red raspberry seed oil and carrot seed oil
Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure
With the right care, your furry (or furless!) companions can stay safe, comfortable, and sunburn-free all season long.
Shop Our Natural, Lick-Safe Sun Protection
At Sit. Stay. Forever., we believe sun protection should be safe, natural, and effective — for both dogs and cats. Our sunscreen formula uses only organic, plant-based ingredients that are scientifically supported, veterinarian approved, and truly lick-safe.