Sunbathing in dogs and cats

Why do pets lay in the sun?

Cats and dogs enjoy basking in the sun for the same reasons we do: it’s warm, relaxing, and makes them feel good! However, sunbathing has various benefits for pets that are important in keeping them healthy and happy.

Mood boost

Serotonin, the “feel good” chemical, is a hormone essential for mood regulation. It acts as a neurotransmitter that sends messages to the brain that make pets (and us) feel good. Serotonin levels influence:

• Learning
• Depression 
• Anxiety
• Sleep
• Digestion
• Nausea
• Wound healing
• Bone health
• Sexual health

Soaking up the sun boosts serotonin levels, making your pet happy and relaxed.

Temperature regulation

Our pet’s baseline body temperature is higher than ours. Laying in the sun is an easy way for your cat or dog to regulate their body temperature without expending any energy. Cats and smaller pets lose body temperature more quickly, making them more likely to take advantage of the sun’s warm rays.

Pain relief

You may have noticed that your body relaxes when you sit or lie in the sunlight. This is due to the sun’s warmth and because sunlight helps release feel-good endorphins. This combination helps relax stiff muscles and decrease inflammation in bones and joints. 

Our pets experience the same relaxing effect. This is why older pets or pets who suffer from arthritis are more likely to spend more time lounging under the sun.

Healthy sleep cycle

Similar to humans, a dog or cat’s circadian rhythm relies on the day-to-night light cycle. Our pets sleep at night, when it is dark, and are awake during the day (minus a few naps!). Sunlight helps keep pets’ internal clocks regulated to ensure they have the energy they need during the day and get restful sleep at night.

Healthy skin and coat

Does your cat or dog lack a lustrous sheen to their coat or suffer from chronic skin conditions? Natural sunlight can help support your pet’s skincare routine. Regular exposure to sunlight can contribute to a healthy skin and coat for your pet in a variety of ways:

Keeping them clean: The sun’s UV rays can help kill bacteria living on your pet’s coat or skin. The sun’s natural antibacterial properties reduce the risk of skin infections, promoting a healthier coat. 

Sleek and shiny: Sunlight helps stimulate the production of natural oils. These oils are essential in keeping your cat or dog’s skin hydrated, promoting a glossy, lustrous coat. 

Improves circulation: Spending time in the sun can help enhance your pet’s blood circulation. Good circulation is essential to maintaining healthy skin cells, which means a vibrant-looking coat!

The power of healing: The sun’s powerful UV rays stimulate the production of new skin cells, aiding the skin’s natural healing processes.

We now know why our pets love to lay in the sun and the many benefits sunlight brings them. However, too much sun can have the same negative effect on pets as it does on humans. Always provide your pet with adequate shade and water, and take extra precautions for pets with lighter coats or sensitive skin. 

Do pets need sunlight to produce vitamin D?

Unlike humans, cats and dogs do not need sunlight to produce vitamin D. Although they can synthesize small amounts of vitamin D from the sun, our four-legged companions rely on their diet for adequate vitamin D absorption. 

Feeding your pet a well-balanced pet food will ensure they get all the necessary vitamin D. Need help choosing the perfect diet for your cat or dog? Call your veterinarian or The Vets to schedule a nutritional consultation to keep your pet healthy, happy, and thriving!

How much sunlight do pets need everyday?

So, if your pet doesn’t require sunlight to produce vitamin D, do they still need sunlight daily? The answer is yes! Veterinarians recommend regular exposure to direct, natural sunlight to reap all the benefits the sun’s rays offer and enhance your pet’s overall health and well-being. 

So, how much sunlight does your pet need every day? That answer depends on several factors, including:

Pet’s age: Puppies, kittens, and seniors are more susceptible to heat exhaustion, while healthy middle-aged pets can enjoy more time in the sun without experiencing adverse effects. 

Coat type: Pets with lighter or thinner coats are more at risk for sunburn and may be unable to withstand long romps in direct sunlight. A dog or cat with a longer, thicker coat has more protection from the sun’s powerful UV rays. 

Breed: Certain pet breeds cannot tolerate long periods of direct sunlight. Even in cooler temperatures, brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds are at risk for overheating.

Weather: The amount of sunlight your pet can enjoy depends on the weather conditions. If it is hot outside, limiting your pet’s exposure to direct sunlight is essential to prevent overheating. 

Pet’s health status: Pets with certain health conditions should be monitored closely in direct sunlight. For example, a pet with alopecia (hair loss) or dermatitis (skin inflammation) could suffer side effects from prolonged sun exposure.

Current medications: Some medications can affect a pet’s ability to regulate their body temperature or cause sensitivity to sunlight. It’s important to discuss with your veterinarian all of the side effects of your pet’s medication. 

Almost all pets can benefit from daily exposure to direct sunlight. Still, each pet is unique, and it’s essential to consider each pet’s needs before allowing them prolonged exposure to the sun’s powerful rays.

Is sunbathing safe for pets?

Sunbathing is a safe way for pets to reap the benefits of natural sunlight. However, just like humans, cats and dogs are susceptible to the adverse effects of prolonged sun exposure, such as:

• Sunburn
• Heat exhaustion
• Heat stroke
• Skin cancer
• Skin damage

To avoid the dangers of too much sunlight, always ensure your pet has adequate water and shade. Be aware of your pet’s behavior, and if they seem anxious or uncomfortable, bring them inside or out of the sun.

How to keep your pet safe while sunbathing

Are you ready for your pet to join you during your next sunbathing session? Sunlight can offer your cat or dog the same benefits it brings you! Here are some tips for keeping your pet safe and comfortable while they soak up the sun:

Provide ample shade and water: Yes, this one again! We can’t stress enough how important it is to ensure your pet has plenty of shade and water while outdoors. This allows them to regulate their body temperature and escape the sun when they become uncomfortable.

Use sun protection: Sun protection for pets? Yes! Specially formulated sunscreens and UV-protective clothing are available for pets sensitive to the sun. Breeds with thin or light-colored coats or pets with medical conditions can benefit from these products. 

Keep a close eye on them: Monitoring your pet closely for signs of heat stroke or sunburn is essential for fast intervention. Here are some signs to watch for that mean your pet needs to find some shade or head indoors:

• Excessive panting
• Crying or whining
• Excessive drooling
• Lethargy 
• Broken, red, or inflamed skin

You are your pet’s best defense against sun damage. By being aware of the signs of excessive sun exposure and knowing when to head inside, you can ensure that you and your pet safely enjoy the benefits of sunbathing!

In conclusion

Regular exposure to natural sunlight has various benefits for pets. By taking a few simple precautions, you can ensure your pet’s safety while they relax under the sun. 

The next time you catch your furry companion enjoying their favorite sunny spot, give them a few extra minutes to soak up all the wonderful benefits sunbathing provides!