We as humans, always make sure to take care of our skin by wearing sunscreen and regularly having skin checks. But what about our fur babies? Are our pets at any risk of skin cancer just like us?
Skin Cancer in Pets
Unfortunately it is a possibility for cats and dogs to get skin cancer. While it is less common because they generally have fur covering their skin as a natural protection, there are multiple types of skin cancers that our animals can develop.
Did you know : Skin tumours are the most common type of tumour for dogs?
https://www.skincancercentres.com.au/blog/can-your-pets-get-skin-cancer
“Like in humans, skin cancer in animals is predominantly caused by exposure to the sun. UV rays cause sunburn, in which the exposed skin cells are damaged and become blistered, sometimes later developing into cancerous tumours. […] Melanoma may be genetic in animals. Trauma or compulsive licking of a spot on the skin may also increase the likelihood that damaged cells will multiply and become cancerous.”
How to Protect our Pets
Naturally we want to do all we can to protect our cats and dogs from developing any form of cancer.
It may sound odd, but you can use sunscreen that is formulated specifically for your dogs skin. Yes, you read that right, pet-friendly sunscreen. Also, be conscious to avoid taking your pets out in the heat. Always make sure they have shade, particularly during the day.
Fun fact! Some sharks have the ability to change the colour of their skin to protect themselves from UV!
https://www.skincancercentres.com.au/blog/can-your-pets-get-skin-cancer
In the meantime, keep an eye out for any suspicious looking spots on both your pets skin and your own skin. For information on what to look out for when checking your own skin, please read: ‘How to identify concerning spots‘.
Source: https://www.skincancercentres.com.au/blog/can-your-pets-get-skin-cancer
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