Charity’s sunburn warning after feline ear amputations
Phillip was one of three cats requiring an ear amputation after a cancerous growth.
Cats Protection has issued a pet care warning, after seeing three cats suffering from sun-related ear cancer.
All of the cats required partial ear amputations to prevent the aggressive growth of the cancers, which could have caused severe damage or fatal consequences.
The charity says that the cats had each developed cancerous cells as a result of prolonged exposure to the sun. Brighter spring and summer days put cats at risk of sunburn and skin cancer, especially cats with white or pale-coloured ears and noses.
For some cats, sun damage can go unnoticed for years before becoming visible as a cancerous growth. By the time owners notice scabbing or sores, the cancer may already be present.
This was the case for Tasha, a white cat which developed cancer later in her life.
Tasha had been adopted by her owner, Joanna Burgess, when she had been living abroad. The white cat had enjoyed hot weather, and was often found sunbathing.
Ms Burgess said: “After we moved to the UK in her later years, she developed severe, progressive sun damage on one ear and eventually it had to be removed. She went on to live a few more happy years, but sadly the damage had also affected her nose and we eventually had to have her put to sleep as it kept progressing.
“I never imagined sunlight could do so much harm.”
Pet owners are being urged to take precautions which could significantly reduce the risk. This includes keeping pets indoors during the hottest part of the day (between 10am and 3pm), using pet-safe sunscreen and providing plenty of outdoor shade.
Izzy Hocking, senior veterinary engagement manager, said: “A few small changes to a cat’s routine can make a huge difference. We want owners to enjoy the warmer weather with their pets - but to do so safely.”
Image © Cats Protection
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
