Some animals are at greater risk than others
A stark warning is being issued to pet owners after a cat brought into the charity’s care required surgery to have both ears removed due to severe sun damage. Buddy, an eight-year-old Domestic Shorthair, was taken in by Battersea’s Old Windsor Cattery after being discovered as a stray.
The charity’s clinical team swiftly identified lesions on both of his ears – one of which was diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer triggered by UV damage. Battersea’s clinical team also discovered pre-cancerous cells on Buddy’s other ear and were sadly left with no choice but to remove both ears to safeguard his future health.
Cats with white or light-coloured fur, such as Buddy, are especially susceptible to sunburn and sun damage, particularly on exposed areas like their ears and nose. While fur offers some degree of protection, areas with less coverage can be especially vulnerable to harmful UV rays.
Hazel Adams, cattery team leader at Battersea Old Windsor, 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.”
The summer of 2026 is firmly on course to become the hottest on record in the UK. Battersea is calling on owners of lighter-coloured cats to take additional precautions in the sunshine, reports Wales Online.
Animal-friendly sun cream can be applied to areas such as the tips of the ears and nose, while treats and gentle strokes can help cats develop a positive association with the process. Battersea advises using a titanium dioxide-based sun cream and steering clear of products containing zinc oxide. Owners should always consult their vet if they are uncertain which sun protection product to use.
If you are keen to give Buddy his second chance, please visit: https://www.battersea.org.uk/rehoming. For further guidance on keeping your pets safe in the heat,click here.





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