Sphynx Sunburns can be quite painful for your cat. Unfortunately, Sphynx cats are very vulnerable to sunburns because of their lack of fur. This is due to their sensitive and thin skin that can easily be burned by the sun’s rays. As a result, it’s very important for owners of Sphynx cats to take extra precautions when allowing their cat to go outdoors.
When going outdoors, it’s best for owners to apply sunscreen to their cats. It’s also important to keep an eye out for any signs of a sunburn, such as redness or tenderness of the skin. If a sunburn is noticed, it’s important to contact a veterinarian as soon as possible so that they can provide advice and treatment if necessary. Sphynx owners should limit outdoor time during the hottest parts of the day and avoid direct sunlight as much as possible.
If your cat does get sunburned, it’s important to provide immediate treatment. This can involve applying cool compresses to the affected areas or using aloe vera gel or lotion to soothe the skin. Any blisters should be monitored closely and kept clean in order to prevent infection.
Symptoms of Sphynx Sunburn
Symptoms of Sunburns can include:
- Redness and tenderness of the skin
- Blisters
- Peeling
If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, it’s important to contact a veterinarian as soon as possible for advice and treatment. If the sunburn is severe, it could also cause an appetite loss or changes in their behavior.
Diagnosing Sphynx Sunburn
In order to diagnose a sunburn, your veterinarian will likely perform a physical examination of your cat. This can involve looking at the affected areas and feeling the skin for signs of tenderness or sensitivity. Your veterinarian might also take a sample of the affected area in order to rule out any other medical conditions that could be causing the sunburn.
Stage of Sphynx Sunburn
Sunburn can be split into three stages:
Stage 1
Mild sunburns cause redness and tenderness of the skin.
Stage 2
Moderate sunburns cause blisters and some peeling of the skin.
Stage 3
Severe sunburns cause significant blistering and peeling of the skin, as well as loss of appetite and changes in behavior.
Treating Sphynx Sunburn
Treating sunburns will vary depending on the severity of the burn. For mild sunburns, cool compresses can be applied to soothe the skin and aloe vera gel or lotion will usually help speed up healing. For more severe sunburns, your veterinarian might prescribe antibiotics if there is any risk of infection. Some cats might need fluids in order to prevent dehydration.
Preventing Sphynx Sunburn
To prevent sunburns, it’s important to limit outdoor time during the hottest parts of the day and avoid direct sunlight as much as possible. Sphynx owners should always apply sunscreen to their cats before going outdoors. Finally, it’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of a sunburn and contact a veterinarian if any symptoms are noticed.