Help! I think my cat has an eye infection.

Eye infections are relatively common in cat's and can be caused by a number of issues, but there are other conditions which may also affect your cat's eyes. Below, our vets share 3 conditions which could affect your cat's eyes. 

Conditions That Can Affect Your Cat's Eyes

Like a person's eyes, your cat's eyes can also be affected by a number of different infections and conditions that can be painful or even contagious. Here are a few of the most common conditions that can affect your cat's eyes and the associated symptoms.

Cat Eye Infections & Conjunctivitis

Eye infections can be painful, irritating and sometimes even contagious to other cats. Cat eye infections can caused by:

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 and sneezing or may be rubbing at the eye. 

If your cat has an eye infection, treatment will largely depend on the cause. In many cases your vet may prescribe antibiotic drops or ointment to fight the 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 another health condition, your cat's treatment may be more focused on treating the underlying health condition.

Glaucoma

As with people, glaucoma in cats is caused by pressure on the eye due to a buildup of pressure from excess fluid. Causes of the fluid buildup can include:

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 requires immediate attention. 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. 

This condition is typically treated by draining the excess fluid from the eye to relieve pressure (and pain). Once the underlying cause of the condition is treated, mild causes glaucoma may clear up relatively quickly. More severe cases will require ongoing treatment, or the affected eye may even need to be removed.

Cataracts

While cataracts in cats can be the result of the aging process, but are most often the result of an inflammation within the eye called uveitis. Other causes of cataracts in cats include

The early signs of cataracts can be difficult to detect by owners but can be spotted early by vets during 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.

If your cat is diagnosed with cataracts you may be referred to one of our veterinary ophthamologists for treatment. Cataracts can often be treated through surgery. Our board-certified veterinary ophthamologists offer eye care services to diagnose and treat conditions such as cataracts in cats.