They may currently live at opposite ends of the country – but Biscuit and Minnie have one major thing in common.
Biscuit – who is under the care of RSPCA Newport Adoption Centre – developed cancer on her right ear which had to be amputated, while Minnie – who is currently at RSPCA Bryn Y Maen Animal Centre also had the tips of her ears removed due to previous sun damage.
They are now looking for their paw-fect homes.
White or predominantly white cats have a higher risk of developing skin cancer on their ears than darker-coated cats and senior cats are more likely to develop cancers as they age.
The RSPCA advises that if your cat has white or light coloured fur to use pet safe sun-cream particularly on the tips of their ears which can get sunburnt exactly the same as humans do.
Signs of skin cancer can be redness or soreness, particularly on the tips of the ears, or crusting around the ears. The charity also advises that it is always best to talk to your vet about keeping your white cat protected from the sun and ask for advice if you have any concerns.
Clare Jones at RSPCA Bryn Y Maen Animal Centre said Minnie had been previously rehomed but was returned to the Upper Colwyn Bay centre recently after her owner sadly passed away.
She said: “She was originally found on the street with her kittens, which she had given birth to outside and they were surviving in a garden.
“In our care our vets removed her ears due to pre-cancerous changes caused by previous sun damage, and she recovered really well.
“She is such a gentle cat and just needs another quiet home again, as she has so much love to give. We really hope after going through so much a forever home is found for her soon.”
If you would like to express an interest in Biscuit, please complete this Online Application Form.
While three-year-old Biscuit is also looking for the perfect home and being cared for by RSPCA Newport Adoption Centre.
Rehoming Coordinator at RSPCA Newport Adoption Centre, Chelsea Davies, said: “Biscuit came into our care as she developed cancer on her right ear which had to be amputated.
“She has taken this all in her stride but continues to sunbathe so will require owners willing to monitor her sun time and apply sunscreen on her remaining ear and the tip of her nose to avoid any nasty unwanted surprises!
Biscuit would make a fabulous family pet with older children who understand she is a bit delicate despite her lively front.
Chelsea added: “Her positive attitude is infectious – she is sure to brighten up even the dullest of days!
“Biscuit has shown very little interest in other cats and would much prefer to be the only furry angel in her new home.
If you would like to express an interest in Biscuit, please complete this Online Application Form.
The animal welfare charity is spreading the message through billboards this summer, reminding owners to protect their moggies from the sun’s harmful rays.
Rebecca Ashman, Head Vet at the animal welfare charity, said: “Cats can get sunburnt in exactly the same way as humans do, and exposure to the sun causes them all the same risks.
“To keep them safe, you can gently apply some pet-safe, waterproof sun cream – at least factor 30 – to the front and back of the tips of your cat’s ears and a bit on the furless part of their nose.
“Your cat might find this feels a bit strange at first, but take it slow and reward them with treats. It’s important to make sure they are protected and this small act will help to keep them healthy – every kind of animal deserves our kindness this summer.
“Signs of skin cancer in cats include redness and soreness, especially on the tips of the ears, or crusting around the ears – so if you notice this, it’s important to take your cat to the vet.”
The RSPCA says there are other great ways to keep cats and other pets cool this summer too – including not leaving them in hot conservatories or outbuildings, making sure they have ample access to shade, constant access to fresh water and cool damp towels to lie on. Ice cubes in water bowls on very hot days is another useful tip.
