Kitty Eye Problems

Our feline friends have many striking features, but their eyes are particularly pretty. Fluffy’s eyes have also garnered quite a few myths! Your kitty can’t actually see in the dark … but she can develop eye problems. A Brampton, ON vet discusses cats’ eyes below.

Common Issues

Cats can develop many of the same problems as people can. Some of these include conjunctivitis, or pink eye, which is usually caused by bacterial infections or viruses. Kitties can also get glaucoma, which is caused by a buildup of fluid. This is one of the leading causes of blindness in INSERT PEOPLE OR CATS. Cataracts are another common issue. These are a clouding of the eye’s lens, which interferes with the eye’s ability to process light. This is usually caused by aging, but can also happen from toxic exposure. Corneal ulcers, which are painful sores on the eye, are another possible issue.

Signs

Most of the indications of kitty eye problems are easy to spot. These include redness, swelling, excessive tearing, and rapid or excessive blinking. You may also notice discharge, which may look brown, green, yellow, or red. Fluffy may also blink rapidly, become sensitive to light, shake or paw at her head, or sneeze. Nasal discharge can sometimes be related to eye issues. In fact, some eye problems can be associated with upper respiratory infections. If you’re wondering whether your cat might have a cold, check out our article on “Does Your Cat Have a Cold?” for more information. There are also some behavioral issues to look for, which are generally just the thing cats do when they don’t feel well. These include withdrawal, crankiness, unusual vocalizations, and poor grooming. Fluffy may also yowl or cry, and she may show signs of vision problems, such as missing jumps. Call your vet right away if you notice any of these things.

Treatment

The exact treatment needed for your kitty’s eye issues really depends on what the issue is. IN some cases, medication may take care of it. However, it’s important to get your furry pal to the vet right away. At our clinic, we offer comprehensive veterinary diagnostics to accurately identify and treat your cat’s eye problems. You’ll also need to make sure that Fluffy has a clean, comfy environment; good food; and fresh water. We also recommend keeping your cat indoors, and reducing your pet’s exposure to irritants such as dust.

Blindness

There are cases where kitties lose their sight, whether due to age, illness, or injury. This can be quite scary, but don’t assume the worst. Cats can still live full, healthy lives, even if their peepers don’t work properly. You’ll just need to make a few adjustments, such as setting out carpet runners.

Our Advice on Kitty Eye Problems in 2024

What are some common eye problems in cats?

Common eye problems in cats include conjunctivitis, often caused by bacterial infections or viruses, leading to pink eye. Glaucoma, a condition resulting from fluid buildup, can cause blindness. Cataracts, which cloud the eye’s lens and impair light processing, typically arise with aging or due to toxic exposure. Additionally, corneal ulcers present as painful sores on the eye. These issues can lead to symptoms such as redness, swelling, and discharge. Early detection and treatment are crucial. For concerns or treatment options, consider consulting with a veterinarian at a local animal clinic in Brampton, ON.

What causes conjunctivitis in cats?

Conjunctivitis in cats is typically caused by bacterial infections or viruses. These pathogens can lead to inflammation of the conjunctiva, resulting in the common symptoms of pink eye, such as redness, discharge, and swelling. Sometimes, allergens or foreign bodies entering the eye can also trigger conjunctivitis. It’s essential for cat owners to monitor their pets for these signs and seek veterinary care promptly to address the underlying cause and prevent further complications. Early intervention can greatly improve outcomes for affected cats.

What causes glaucoma in cats?

Glaucoma in cats is caused by an abnormal buildup of fluid in the eye, leading to increased pressure that can damage the optic nerve and result in blindness. This condition can arise due to underlying issues such as inflammation, injury to the eye, or blockage of the eye’s drainage channels. Early detection and treatment are critical to manage the condition and minimize the risk of vision loss. Cat owners noticing signs of eye distress should consult a veterinarian promptly.

Are there any signs that require immediate veterinary attention?

Yes, several signs require immediate veterinary attention to ensure the health and safety of your pet. These include redness, swelling, excessive tearing, discharge of any color (brown, green, yellow, red), rapid blinking, sensitivity to light, head shaking, pawing at the eye, sneezing with nasal discharge, withdrawal, crankiness, unusual vocalizations, poor grooming, yowling, crying, and signs of vision problems like missing jumps. Early intervention can be crucial for conditions like conjunctivitis, glaucoma, and corneal ulcers. If you observe any of these symptoms, contacting a local veterinarian in Brampton, ON, promptly is advisable.

Are particular cat breeds more prone to specific eye problems?

Yes, certain cat breeds are more prone to specific eye problems due to genetic predispositions. For example, Persian and Himalayan cats often face issues like cherry eye and entropion, primarily due to their brachycephalic facial structure. Siamese cats and other oriental breeds may be more susceptible to progressive retinal atrophy, a condition leading to gradual vision loss. Maine Coons can be predisposed to congenital cataracts. It’s essential for owners of these breeds to monitor their cats closely for eye health issues and seek veterinary care promptly.

Do you have questions about your cat’s health or care? Contact us, your local Springdale, ON animal clinic, anytime!