The Benefits and Risks of Sun Exposure: What’s the Deal with Cats and Sunbathing?

If you’ve ever caught your cat sprawled out in a warm sunbeam, looking utterly content, you’re not alone. Cats are known for their love of basking in the sun and will even move around the house to stay warm as the sun moves. Some of the better-known places to hunker down include by a window or door, or on the hot pavement in the summer.

Why do they do this? Cats run hot, and they love staying warm. Cats have an average body temperature of roughly 3-4°F, and because of this, they can handle more warmth than a human being. Let’s run through some of the reasons they love the sun, then discuss the risks.

Why Do Cats Love Sunbathing?

·      Keeping Warm Efficiently – As mentioned above, cats have a higher body temperature than humans, typically around 101-102.5°F (38-39°C), whereas the average human body temperature is around 98°F or (38.3-39.2°C). As a result, they naturally seek warmth to help maintain it. Sunbathing allows them to conserve energy rather than using calories to stay warm.

·      Mimicking Their Wild Instincts – Cats' wild ancestors were desert-dwelling animals, accustomed to warm and sunny environments. Even though the average house cat lives inside a cozy home, those instincts remain, drawing them to sunlit spots.

·      Comfort and Relaxation – The warmth of the sun can have a soothing effect on muscles and joints, especially for older cats or those with arthritis. It’s like nature’s heating pad, providing gentle relief.

·      Vitamin D – While humans absorb Vitamin D through their skin from sunlight, cats get it differently. The oils in their fur produce Vitamin D when exposed to the sun and they actually ingest it by grooming themselves.

The Risks of Too Much Sun Exposure

While sunbathing is enjoyable, similarly to humans, excessive sun exposure can pose risks to some cats. On the plus side, most can handle a lot more sun than we can.

·      Sunburn – Cats with light-coloured or thin fur are more prone to sunburn, especially on their ears, nose, and belly. Hairless breeds are particularly at risk and may require vet-approved sunblock before prolonged exposure.

·      Heat Exhaustion & Dehydration – Overheating can lead to lethargy, drooling, panting, or even heatstroke, which is a medical emergency. If you suspect your cat may have heat stroke, you need to cool them down with a wet cloth, fans, or air conditioning, and get them to a vet as soon as possible.

·      Skin Cancer – Just like us, prolonged sun exposure increases the risk of squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer that often affects the ears and nose.

Keep Your Cat Safe While Sunbathing

·      Provide Shade & Cool Areas – Make sure your cat has a shady retreat or access to cooler indoor spaces.

·      Use Pet-Safe Sunscreen – If your cat has light or sparse fur, consider applying a vet-approved, cat-safe sunblock to sensitive areas.

·      Keep Hydration in Check – Always provide fresh water, especially if your cat enjoys sunbathing outside.

·      Limit Exposure – If your cat has access to a patio, garden, or catio, monitor their time in direct sunlight to prevent overheating.