Our cats need their eyes for seeing, playing, and exploring. When their eyes experience issues, their lives are affected in a big way. One of the many problems they may face is eye infections.
Eye infections in cats are extremely uncomfortable, and many lead to more severe issues in the long run. That’s why we’re here to help you know everything there is to know about it, from what the signs are to how we can prevent them.
Key Takeaways
General signs include redness, watery eyes, squinting, pawing, and light sensitivity.
Eye infections in cats are generally caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, injuries, and allergens.
Treatment involves medication and supportive care.
What Are the Symptoms of Cat Eye Infections?
The signs can manifest in several ways. Here are the common symptoms our veterinarians observe.
Watery Eyes and Discharge. Excessive tearing can be an indicator of an eye infection. This may be clear, cloudy, or greenish/yellowish. Thick green or yellow discharge is often a clear sign of a bacterial eye infection.
Redness and Swelling. Redness and swelling may also be present along the white parts of the eye and the surrounding tissues.
Squinting or Excessive Blinking. Affected cats may constantly squint or blink because of the irritation and discomfort they feel. Some may even keep one eye closed.
Pawing at the Eye. Much like squinting or blinking, cats with eye infections may want to paw or scratch their eyes. Excessive pawing can be dangerous, often worsening the condition.
Sensitivity to Light. A cat’s eyes can be sensitive to light when it has an eye infection. You’ll start to notice this when you see your cat shying away from sources of bright light and avoiding the sun during the daytime.
Is a Feline Eye Infection an Emergency?
They are often considered an emergency when symptoms arise abruptly and severely. Generally, if your cat has an eye infection, the sooner you seek treatment, the better.
What Causes Eye Infections in Cats?
Cat eye infections are generally caused by pathogens, injuries, allergies, and other health issues.
Bacteria
Bacterial agents are among the most common causes of eye infections in cats. These include Chlamydia felis and Mycoplasma spp. They’re also one of the main pathogens involved in feline conjunctivitis.
These infections are also highly contagious, capable of spreading to other cats through direct contact. Because of this, areas where cats are close together, such as unhygienic shelters and boarding facilities, are hot spots.
Viruses
Viruses are deemed to be the most common cause of eye infections in cats. Common culprits include feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus.
They generally attack the cat’s upper respiratory tract and then spread to ocular tissues. Viruses infect the epithelial cells of the conjunctiva, causing severe inflammation. By damaging the eye’s surface, viruses pave the way for secondary bacterial infections, triggering further infection.
Fungi
While fungal eye infections in cats are much less common, they’re still a major threat. This occurs when the cats are exposed to the fungal spores from the environment. Common threats include Aspergillus and Candida.
Many of these infections are contagious, easily spreading through direct contact with infected cats or contaminated surfaces.
Scratches and Injuries
Physical injuries can also contribute to cat eye infections. Open sores and scratches from animal fights, debris, or sharp objects may leave the eye vulnerable to an infection. This makes it easy for pathogens to enter.
Allergic Reactions
Feline allergies can set the stage for an infection by causing irritation and inflammation that damage the eye’s protective surface. As a result, bacteria and viruses may easily enter, causing infection. Cats with allergies may also scratch or paw at their eyes, leading to tiny injuries.
Structural Issues
Some cats have unique eye structures and conditions that may make them susceptible to eye infections. This includes conditions such as entropion, chronic dry eye, and blocked tear ducts.
How Are Eye Infections in Cats Diagnosed?
Our pet ophthalmologists focus on an eye exam and several tests to diagnose your cat’s eye infection.
Ocular Examination
The diagnostic process starts with a full physical exam of your cat and their eyes. We may do an ophthalmoscopy to examine the internal structures of the eye and identify any inflammatory fluid or damage.
Fluorescein Dye Test
We use an orange dye and apply it to the surface of your cat’s eye. After washing away the excess dye, we shine a special blue light that highlights any damage to the cornea in bright green.
Cytology
Our vets collect a sample of the discharge or cells from the cat's eye surface using a sterile swab. This will be examined under a microscope to help us detect any pathogens or inflammatory cells present.
Culture and Sensitivity Test
For recurring infections, we may perform a culture and sensitivity test. This works by using the sample to grow a culture, allowing us to identify the pathogens involved and the appropriate treatments for them. All these will be done at our in-house laboratory.
Tonometry
If the infection is too severe, we may perform tonometry to measure intraocular pressure. This is used for situations where secondary glaucoma is suspected as a result of the infection.
Schirmer’s Tear Test
STT measures your cat’s tear production, helping us diagnose if dry eye is involved in the infection. It works by placing a small piece of paper inside the lower eyelid, measuring wetness in millimeters. Low tear production is indicated by under 10 mm/min.
Other Tests
For specific cases, our vets can perform allergy testing and bloodwork if needed. The main ones will depend on your cat’s condition.
How Do Vets Treat Feline Eye Infections?
Once we’ve identified the cause, we’ll focus on medication and supportive care.
Topical Treatments
Ointments or eye drops for cat eye infections are often the most used option for these cases. They are effective at addressing the infection, and they can be easily used at home. Common ones include Terramycin and Vetropolycin for bacterial infections.
For viral infections, we may prescribe famciclovir. Other supportive medications, such as anti-inflammatories, may be used to alleviate pain and inflammation.
Oral Medications
Oral medications can also help address the root cause of the issue, especially when it has become too severe. These work by systematically eliminating the main pathogen, helping your cat recover.
Supportive Care
Supportive care will be essential for recovery at home. These may include:
Using E-collars
Adjusting your cat’s diet
Using air purifiers
Minimizing outdoor time
Changing your cat’s environment
Using a warm compress over the eye
How Can Cat Eye Infections Be Prevented?
Protecting your cat from eye infections is the best way to keep their eyes healthy. Follow these few tips:
Schedule Vet Checkups
Routine checkups are among the best ways to monitor your cat’s overall health, including their eyes. During these visits, our ophthalmologists can identify potential issues early and provide quick treatments.
Maintain a Clean Home
Keeping a clean living area helps remove the dust, bacteria, mold, and other factors that could threaten your cats' eyes with eye infections. Use air purifiers, wash their bedding, and regularly change their litter boxes.
Groom Your Cat
Regular cat grooming helps ward off eye infections. Brushing, bathing, and gently cleaning around the eyes can help remove dirt, allergens, and bacteria before they cause problems. Plus, always check your cat’s eyes for any discharge or debris.
Keep Your Cat Indoors
Keeping your cat indoors reduces its risk of exposure to bacteria, viruses, allergens, and injuries. This will significantly reduce the risk of your cat developing an eye infection.
Boost Your Cat’s Nutrition
Feeding your cat healthy and nutritious food can help protect them from infections, especially those involving their eyes. Make sure your cats eat a well-balanced diet with healthy supplements.
“Healthy eyes help cats see the world and avoid the trouble they love to find. A little bit of care helps them keep this gift.”
- Dr. Lidija Krvavac
Final Thoughts
Cats need their eyes to explore the world around them and create lasting memories with their owners. That’s why it falls upon us to make sure they stay safe from feline eye infections and maintain a healthy and happy life.
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