Veterinarians warn that cats with white or light coats are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. A lack of melanin, the pigment that protects the skin, makes these animals more prone to sunburn and, in more severe cases, to developing skin cancer.
The most affected body areas include the tips of the ears, nose, eyelids, and lips, where the fur is less dense and pigmentation is lower. Even indoor cats can be at risk, as UV radiation can penetrate window glass.
Warning signs such as redness, persistent crusts, peeling, or localized hair loss should be monitored. Persistent skin changes require veterinary assessment to prevent progression to more serious lesions, such as ulcers or tumors.
