Cat loses both ears from extreme sunburn

By Jack Fifield

Vets have warned pet owners to protect their animals during the heatwave after a cat had both its ears amputated due to damage caused by sunburn.

Buddy, an eight-year-old Domestic Shorthair stray, was taken to Battersea’s Old Windsor Cattery in May, suffering from serious sun damage to his ears.

Vets found he had lesions on both of his ears – one of which was diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer caused by UV damage.

The clinical team at the charity found pre-cancerous cells on his other ear, meaning both had to be removed to prevent future health issues.

Buddy's ears have now fully healed, and he went up for adoption last week.

Battersea says cats with white, or pale-colored, fur are more vulnerable to sunburn and sun damage, especially on exposed areas like ears and noses.

The charity is now urging cat owners to take extra precautions as the heatwave continues, by applying animal-friendly sun cream to the tips of the ears and nose.

Titanium dioxide-based sun cream is recommended, while products with zinc oxide should be avoided.

Hazel Adams, who works at the Battersea Old Windsor cattery, said: “Buddy’s story is a serious reminder of just how devastating sun damage can be to our pets.

“Providing plenty of shade and water, keeping cats indoors during the hottest parts of the day, and using animal-friendly sun cream are a few simple ways owners can reduce the risks and help their pets stay safe in the heat.

“Despite everything he has been through, Buddy has proven to be a gentle and affectionate companion.

“He has adapted remarkably well to life without his ears and while his hearing has been affected, it hasn’t stopped him from living life to the fullest.

“He is now ready to find a loving home that understands his unique needs.”