Eye conditions in cats can range from minor irritations to severe, vision-threatening emergencies. Prompt identification and veterinary care are crucial to preserving your cat’s vision and ensuring their comfort.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma occurs when fluid inside the eye cannot drain normally, causing increased pressure within the eye (intraocular pressure). Elevated eye pressure damages the optic nerve and retina and can lead to irreversible blindness if left untreated. Glaucoma is considered a painful condition and, when it develops suddenly, is a medical emergency requiring prompt treatment.

Common signs in cats include squinting, excessive tearing, eye redness, a cloudy appearance of the eye, an enlarged eye, vision loss, a dilated pupil, rubbing at the eye, lethargy, and signs of pain. Some cats may have subtle signs early in the disease process.

Tonometry (measurement of intraocular pressure) is required for the diagnosis. Acute glaucoma requires immediate treatment to reduce pressure and preserve vision, sometimes requiring emergency surgery by a veterinary ophthalmologist. Medical management commonly includes Dorzolamide eye drops to reduce fluid production. End-stage glaucoma often requires a comfort-focused approach, potentially including surgical removal of the affected eye.

Corneal Ulcers & Injuries

The cornea is the clear outer surface of the eye. Corneal ulcers occur when this surface is scratched, damaged, or injured. Because the cornea is highly sensitive, even small ulcers can be very painful for a cat. Untreated injuries can lead to infection, scarring, or blindness.

Signs include squinting, redness, excessive tearing, eye discharge, cloudiness, rubbing at the face, and holding the eye closed.

Diagnosis requires a complete exam and fluorescein staining. Treatment typically involves antibiotic eye medications, pain relief, and strict use of an Elizabethan collar (E-collar) to prevent rubbing or self-trauma. Follow-up exams are essential to confirm complete healing.

Conjunctivitis (Ocular Infection)

Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the pink tissue lining the eyelids. In cats, this can develop from bacterial or viral infections, allergies, irritants, trauma, foreign material, or underlying eye disease. Common signs include redness, squinting, excessive tearing, eye discharge, swelling around the eye, sensitivity to light, blinking, and rubbing at the face.

Diagnostics typically involve a complete eye examination and may include a fluorescein stain. Treatment depends on the underlying cause but commonly includes antibiotic and/or anti-inflammatory eye medications. An E-collar may be recommended to prevent additional trauma. While most uncomplicated infections show noticeable improvement within 48-72 hours, chronic or recurrent cases may require managing the underlying cause, such as feline allergies or viral infections.

Cataracts

A cataract occurs when the lens inside the cat’s eye becomes cloudy or opaque, preventing light from focusing properly. As cataracts progress, vision becomes impaired and may lead to blindness. Cataracts should not be confused with lenticular sclerosis, a normal age-related change that rarely causes significant vision loss.

Signs include a cloudy or white appearance of the eye, decreased vision, bumping into objects, difficulty navigating unfamiliar environments, and hesitancy on stairs. Some cats show minimal signs until cataracts become advanced.

Treatment depends on severity and the cat’s quality of life. Cataract surgery (lens removal) by a veterinary ophthalmologist may be recommended. Many cats adapt well to gradual vision loss, but untreated cataracts can lead to secondary inflammation and glaucoma, which require prompt veterinary evaluation.

This blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide diagnostic or treatment guidance. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, please contact Cascade Heights Veterinary Center directly by phone at 206-403-1108,  email, or by scheduling an appointment.  Medications, supplements, and prescription diets can be conveniently ordered through our online pharmacy.