Common Eye Problems in Cats

Eye problems are relatively common in cats and can be caused by a variety of different factors. Some eye problems are minor and resolve themselves on their own, while others may require treatment from a veterinary ophthalmologist. Regardless of the eye problems your cat is experiencing, our team is here to help. When it comes to eye problems in cats, our team has seen and dealt with it all. There are a variety of eye problems that our veterinary ophthalmologists can handle, but here are a few of the most common ones we see in cats. And don't forget, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us with any questions or schedule your appointment.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and covers the surface of the eye. It is a very common eye problem in cats and can be caused by allergies, bacteria, viruses, or foreign bodies such as dirt or sand. Conjunctivitis can cause the eye to appear red and inflamed, and your cat may also have discharge from the eye. A more robust list of symptoms of conjunctivitis includes redness, swelling, discharge, and squinting. Conjunctivitis is usually treated with eye drops or ointment. Ultimately, though, it's best to consult with a veterinary ophthalmologist to get a proper diagnosis and ensure that your cat receives the right treatment.

Corneal Ulcer

A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the surface of the eye. Corneal ulcers are usually caused by bacteria, but they can also be caused by viruses, fungi, and other irritants. In some cases, corneal ulcers can be a sign of more serious underlying health problems. Symptoms of a corneal ulcer include redness, squinting, and discharge. Your cat may also paw at its eye or hold its eye closed. Treatment for a corneal ulcer will vary depending on the cause, but it may include eye drops, ointment, or surgery. Corneal Ulcers are not to be taken lightly and you should seek professional intervention right away.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma in cats is a condition in which the pressure inside the eye is too high. It can be caused by a variety of different factors, including eye injuries, eye infections, and certain eye diseases. Symptoms of glaucoma include redness, pain, and blindness. If your cat is showing any signs of glaucoma, it is important to seek treatment from a veterinary ophthalmologist right away as the condition can rapidly progress and lead to permanent blindness. Treatment for glaucoma may include eye drops, surgery, or a combination of both.

Cataracts

A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens. Cataracts can be caused by a variety of different factors, including eye injuries, eye infections, and certain eye diseases. Symptoms of cataracts include cloudy or blurry vision. In some cases, cataracts may cause complete blindness. Treatment for cataracts usually involves surgery to remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial one.

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These are some of the most common eye problems that our cat ophthalmologists at Animal Eye Associates encounter. Whether your cat is struggling with one of the eye problems listed above or dealing with a different problem entirely, Animal Eye Associates is here to help. If you are unsure whether or not your cat’s eye problem requires professional intervention, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We would be more than happy to answer any of your questions or concerns. Our team of veterinary ophthalmologists would rather examine and diagnose your feline friend and have it be nothing than for you to not bring them in and have it turn out to be something more serious.

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