One might think that, thanks to their fur, pets are free from this disease. However, nothing is further from reality. Dogs and cats can get skin cancer just like people. According to the data handled by the AniCura Group, a network of hospitals and veterinary clinics, it is estimated that 450 out of every 100,000 dogs suffer from some type of skin cancer. In the case of cats, the figures are 120 out of 100,000. So it is necessary to take care of them from exposure to the sun, especially during the summer season, when it increases.
Pets’ skin is also sensitive to solar radiation, so certain precautions must be taken to avoid the appearance of possible carcinomas. This is especially relevant in the case of dogs, since they go out daily for their walks. But you also have to be careful with cats that enjoy sunbathing on the terrace or next to the windows.
Veterinary dermatologist Annabel Dalmau says that cases of skin cancer in pets represent a more common health problem than is thought. The skin is the main barrier of the body, therefore, it is exposed to numerous external agents, “including chemical products or solar radiation”, she explains. And the latter is the one that can influence the development of skin tumors.
Although it is true that the fur of dogs and cats provides them with extra protection, a better adaptation than in the case of humans, there are areas that do not have this advantage. For example, the nose, lips or English of pets, specifies the specialist. And, in addition, it is frequent that in summer the owners decide to cut the coat of their pets, thus reducing their protection. Not only that, it must be taken into account that certain species have a greater predisposition to suffer from this disease, as is the case of Boxers and Bulldogs in dogs and the Siamese cat.
To prevent the appearance of carcinomas or any other skin problem, Annabel Dalmau advises the use of creams and sunscreens, which are specifically formulated to protect the skin of pets when they are going to be exposed to the sun for a long time.
Small lumps or nodules that are detected on the skin of pets, as well as crusty ulcerations, scaling or intense itching. All these signs could be indications of a possible case of skin cancer. Therefore, it will be essential to go to the vet as soon as possible so that an adequate examination and diagnosis can be carried out.
