Sun exposure in cats is strongly linked to skin cancer. White-skinned cats or hairless cats are more at risk and the most commonly affected areas include: the ears, nose and lower eyelids. In the early stages, sun-linked damage may look pink and scaly with some degree of hair loss (also known as solar dermatitis), but as the condition progresses the area can become crusted and eroded and can indicate progression to a cancerous form.
If left untreated, some cases progress and a malignant tumour called Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) can develop. Cutaneous SCCs are locally invasive, but generally do not spread rapidly to other parts of the body. If the ears are affected, the cat may shake its head and cause bleeding. Cutaneous SCCs on the nose often bleed if the cat rubs its nose or sneezes.
How can squamous cell carcinoma be prevented?
To prevent solar dermatitis in the first place, exposure to peak UV (Ultraviolet) sunlight should be avoided.
This is best achieved by keeping cats with outdoor access indoors between 9.00am and 4.00pm. It is possible to use sunblock creams, but unfortunately cats will rapidly groom or lick this off. Some products may be toxic to cats so check with your vet before you start using a sunscreen. There are special sunblocks available formulated for cats.
How is squamous cell carcinoma treated?
If the ears are affected, surgical removal is the best treatment. Usually, complete removal of the earflap is necessary. This does not affect hearing or balance, and can optimize quality of life.
Early lesions of the nose and eyelids can be successfully treated by diathermy, or cauterising the abnormal tissue. This requires a general anaesthetic. In very advanced cases with nose involvement, removal of the nose may be required.
More advanced cancers may require a combination of surgery and radiation therapy with specialist oncologists in Brisbane.
The prognosis is usually good if the disease is discovered early, and all the diseased tissue can be removed. If all the cutaneous SCC is not adequately removed, the tumour will recur at the operation site and may start to affect quality of life.
