Protecting Your Pet from Skin Cancer

When we think about protecting our loved ones from sun damage, our pets might not be the first to come to mind. However, just like humans, our furry companions can suffer from sun-related skin cancers, particularly in areas where their fur is sparse and their skin is pink. In this blog, we’ll explore the risks of sun exposure for pets, how to spot signs of skin cancer, and what you can do to keep your cat or dog safe. Whether it’s preventing harmful UV rays or seeking treatment for skin lesions, it’s important to take steps now to protect your pet’s long-term health.

Is Your Pet at Risk for Skin Cancer?

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is one of the most common sun-related skin cancers affecting cats and dogs. Pets with pink skin, especially those with lighter fur or thin coats, are at a higher risk, particularly in areas such as around the nose, ears, eyes, and belly. Older pets who love to sunbathe are especially vulnerable to developing SCCs over time, due to cumulative sun damage.

To minimise risk, it's crucial to be mindful of your pet's sun exposure, particularly during peak UV hours.

Recognising the Symptoms of SCC

SCC can start off looking like a small, scabby patch on your pet’s skin, often mistaken for a minor wound or abrasion. However, unlike regular cuts, these lesions don’t heal and will gradually grow in size. They may become red, raised, or even ulcerated, which means the skin can turn raw and painful.

Although SCC doesn’t usually spread to other parts of the body, it can cause significant local tissue damage and, in advanced cases, may lead to weight loss or breathing difficulties.

What to Do if You Notice a Skin Lesion

If you find any unusual skin lesions, particularly those that seem to linger or worsen, it’s essential to book an appointment with our veterinary team as soon as possible.

To confirm whether the lesion is cancerous, we may recommend a surgical biopsy under general anaesthetic, as well as routine blood tests to assess your pet’s overall health. Early detection and prompt action are key to successful treatment.

Treating SCC in Pets

The most effective way to treat SCC is through surgical removal of the tumour, ideally with a wide margin of healthy tissue to ensure all cancerous cells are eradicated. While surgery is often curative, it may not be feasible in certain cases, such as lesions on the nose or where the tumour has become too invasive. In such situations, alternative treatments like

• radiation therapy 
• cryotherapy,
• topical immune-boosting creams can be explored to help control the spread of cancer

How can I protect my pet’s skin?

Prevention is the best cure. If your pet has areas of pink or lightly furred skin, it’s important to limit their exposure to UV rays, particularly between 9am and 3pm when the sun is strongest. Provide shade and indoor entertainment during these hours, and if they must go outside, consider using pet-safe sunscreen. You can also try protective gear such as a pet sunhat or sun suit to shield them from harmful rays.

If you’re worried about your pet’s skin or have noticed any unusual lesions, contact us at 03 9596 4804 for advice and care.