Eye conditions are a common problem for cats. In today's blog post, you will find information on common cat eye problems and how they are diagnosed and treated.
Cat Eye Issues
Just like humans, your cat's eyes are susceptible to infections and loss of vision over time. Below are a few of the most common eye issues in cats, and the associated symptoms.
Cat Eye Infections & Conjunctivitis
Eye infections can be painful, irritating and sometimes contagious to other cats. Cat eye infections can be caused by:
- Viral infections
- Upper respiratory infections (cat colds)
- Parasites
- Bacterial bacterial
- Fungal infections
While the causes of these eye infections vary, the symptoms are very similar. If your cat is suffering from an eye infection symptoms may include redness around the eye, watery eyes, discharge, and possibly swelling. You may also notice that your cat is displaying other symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing or itchy, irritated eyes.
Treatment of your cat's eye infection will largely depend on the cause. Antibiotic drops or ointment is generally prescribed to fight infection and ease symptoms. It is also commonly recommended that you clean your cat's eyes gently to remove discharge and keep your cat safely indoors while they recover.
If your cat's eye infection is caused by an underlying health condition, treatment may primarily focus on treating the underlying problem.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an eye disease in cats characterized by painful pressure on the eye due to a buildup of pressure from excess fluid. Causes of the fluid buildup can include:
- Genetics
- Eye infections
- Eye injury
- Physical abnormalities
- Inflammation
- Tumors
If your cat is suffering from glaucoma they will typically show signs of eye pain such as squinting or rubbing at the eye as well as crying. Other signs can include swollen runny eyes or redness.
Glaucoma in cats should be considered an emergency and requires immediate veterinary care. Early detection and treatment is key when it comes to treating glaucoma. If your cat is showing symptoms call your vet straight away to make an appointment.
While treatment is available if glaucoma is detected in the very early stages, eye surgery is often required to relieve pain associated with glaucoma.
Cataracts
Common causes of cataracts in cats include:
- Nutritional imbalances / Calcium deficiency
- Cancer
- Exposure to a toxic substance.
- Diabetes mellitus
- Electric shock
- Genetic or hereditary factors
Early signs of cataracts can be difficult to detect by pet parents but can be spotted early by your vet during your pet's annual routine examinations. Once the condition is more advanced, you will likely notice a cloudy or milky appearance to the eye. Unfortunately, by the time the condition reaches this stage, your cat has likely suffered significant vision loss.
Signs of vision loss include a reluctance to jump up and to climb stairs, or you may notice that your cat has difficulties finding their water or food bowl. If your cat shows signs of vision loss, contact your vet as soon as possible to schedule an examination.
While not suitable in every case, cataract surgery can help to restore clear vision to some cats.
Cat Eye Care in Seattle
At Northgate Veterinary Clinic, we are fully equipped for complete cat ophthalmic examinations, diagnostics and advanced ophthalmic surgical procedures. Contact us to book an ophthalmic appointment for your feline family member.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.