Yes, the Sun is Out! Here’s How to Protect Sensitive Pet Skin the Natural Way
Sunshine is beautiful and lifts the mood but for pets with sensitive skin, it can also bring discomfort and dryness. And, yes, pets even can get sunburned, especially those with:
• Thin or light-coloured coats (cream or white) short coated breeds like Frenchies, Bullies and even local mix-breeds
• Pink noses or exposed skin & ears flaps
• Hair loss from allergies or medical conditions
• Naturally sensitive skin or autoimmune disorders (Apoquel patients!!)
For these furkids sun protection is more than cosmetic — it’s essential!
🌿 Avoid Conventional Sunscreens because many commercial sunscreens contain ingredients that are toxic to pets especially since our dogs and cats love to groom themselves and ingest these sunscreen products.
✅ Safe, Natural Sun Protection Options
1. Shade First – the best defence is prevention.
Stay indoors or in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Use UV-blocking shirts or lightweight sun shirts (especially for hairless or thin-coated pets)
2. Pet-Safe Natural Sunscreen
There are a few natural, non-toxic products formulated specifically for pets. Look for Non-nano zinc oxide (in pet-safe concentrations), Coconut oil (mild protection + skin-soothing), Shea butter and Calendula or Chamomile herbal extract pet products (anti-inflammatory)
Apply a thin layer to nose, ear tips, and belly. You may want to do the “patch test” first to check if your furkid is sensitive to the product. Avoid essential oils in sunscreen unless the product is professionally formulated and proven safe for pets.
3. DIY Pet-Safe Balm (Light Use)
Her is a ‘recipe’ if you’d like to try a gentle homemade balm:
Ingredients: 1 tbsp shea butter, 1 tbsp coconut oil, 1 tsp beeswax, 1 drop vitamin E oil
Melt all together, pour into a small tub, let cool, and apply to exposed areas.
It’s “lick-safe” in moderation
Support from the Inside Out
Antioxidants and skin-nourishing nutrients can help our pet’s skin to become more resilient to sun exposure and many more other stress factors. Here are my recommended supplements – always for a specific time period only!
• Omega-3s (from krill oil or Ahi flowers)
• Vitamin E (capsule – poke and add oil to food)
• Quercetin (a natural antioxidant found in apples and berries) – as supplement only for 4 days max – it can be hard on cats’ and dogs’ kidneys
• Astaxanthin (a powerful, natural “internal sunscreen”) – 4mg to 6mg per pet per day
As always, consult me or any holistic vet for your pet’s tailored dosage and more detailed useful information about these supplements.
Be Extra Cautious especially if your pet is:
On medications that cause photosensitivity (like certain antibiotics or steroids) and demand from your prescribing vet the exact name of the drug and look up risks and side effects
Recovering from skin problems – bare and new skin areas are hypersensitive
Hairless dog and cat breeds like the Chinese Crested (dog breed) or Sphynx (cat breed) are super sensitive
Watch for signs of sunburn such as redness, dry or peeling skin, licking, or restlessness.
Gentle Protection Goes a Long Way
Keep your pet comfortable and safe with a little awareness and some natural tools. Sensitive-skinned companions can enjoy sunny days without chemicals to keep them healthy on the beach and in high altitudes where sun rays are harsher and more damaging.
If your pet has recurring skin flare-ups or if you’re unsure which natural protection is safe, I’m here to help with personalized advice. Book your appointment with me at www.asiapaws.com
Wishing you a sun-safe, tail-wagging summer!
