By Pauline Machado
Summer 2025 has arrived with temperatures well above the average of previous years, and therefore, care for the health of pets should be redoubled.
It's important to pay attention to hydration, diet, sleeping places, walking areas, and especially the times for outings, since exposure to sunlight can lead to dermatological diseases.
To guide us on what care we should take with the skin of dogs and cats in the summer, we spoke exclusively with a Veterinary Doctor specializing in Dermatology and Allergology, Camila Algauer e Silva .
Excellent explanations. Stay tuned!
Pet Med – To begin, please explain how dogs and cats react to and cope with high temperatures.
Camila Algauer – Animals don't usually have the same ease with thermoregulation as humans, increasing the rates of hyperthermia in these species. These animals tend to exchange heat through their tongue and paws, becoming more breathless as their body temperature increases. Apathy, panting, and restlessness are frequent signs of increased body temperature.
Pet Med – Do animals need to get sun? Why?
Camila Algauer – It is necessary for animals to be exposed to sunlight to stimulate thermoregulation and regulate their circadian rhythm, which is responsible for the production of certain hormones, sleep regulation, and other biological functions. However, sun exposure should be done cautiously, prioritizing times of lower solar incidence.
Pet Med – In what cases is sun exposure not recommended for pets?
Camila Algauer – Animals should not be exposed to the sun during peak sun hours, generally between 10 am and 4 pm. This time frame presents a significant increase in temperature, raising the risk of hyperthermia, sunburn, and other health problems.
Animals with little or no fur should also avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and require a more rigorous grooming routine.
Pet Med – Considering the skin of dogs and cats, what are the most important precautions that owners should take during the summer?
Camila Algauer – During the summer, we should always keep animals sheltered from direct sunlight, using sunscreen and/or UV-protective clothing. Hydration methods should always be available to them, such as fresh water, flavored ice cubes, and chilled food pouches. It's also important to avoid keeping animals in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces such as cars, closed kennels, and doghouses exposed to the sun.
Pet Med – When exposed to sunlight, whether in your backyard, at the beach, or by the pool, is it mandatory to use sunscreen?
Camila Algauer – Yes, it is necessary to use sunscreen whenever there is sun exposure, even on the balcony or indoors. Sunlight can cause various skin problems in animals, such as dermatitis and neoplasms.
Pet Med – So, how do you choose the ideal sunscreen for dogs and cats?
Camila Algauer – There are already several options on the market that we can use on dogs and cats; always look for hypoallergenic brands with at least SPF 30.
Pet Med – How should sunscreen be applied to pets? Before leaving home, or when they are about to be exposed to the sun?
Camila Algauer – With the animal's skin free of dirt such as sand and water, apply to areas with less fur 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply the product every 2 or 3 hours for greater prevention.
Pet Med – And then, do I need to shower to remove the product?
Camila Algauer – Whenever using a sunscreen suitable for animals, it is not necessary to remove the product; however, if your animal shows any dermatological changes, you should discuss this with your trusted veterinarian.
Pet Med – Regarding baths, how often should they be given?
Camila Algauer – Animals with healthy skin and coats should have their baths spaced out more frequently, around 21 to 30 days. When it comes to therapeutic baths, the frequency should follow the veterinarian's prescription and be performed frequently.
Pet Med – What other skin care precautions should families take for their pets during the summer?
Camila Algauer – The use of ectoparasiticidal products to prevent fleas and ticks, abundant water intake, frequent brushing to remove dirt, and bathing the animal whenever necessary are essential to maintain the healthy skin of dogs and cats.
Pet Med – Finally, what are your final thoughts on pet skin care during the summer?
Camila Algauer – Intense sun exposure induces dermatological and cancerous diseases, and especially hyperthermia in dogs. In many cases, this can lead to serious complications. Therefore, whenever there is a risk of hyperthermia, immediate veterinary care should be sought to gradually reduce the animal's body temperature.
🐾💙 Your pet is unique and deserves all the care and affection! 💙🐾
