If your cat’s eyes look swollen, red, and irritated, it could be a sign of conjunctivitis. Commonly known as pink eye, conjunctivitis is a common eye issue in cats.
The condition affects the conjunctiva, a thin membrane that spans the white part of a cat’s eyes. This layer keeps the eyes moist and protects them from dirt, dust, debris, and other particles. When the conjunctiva becomes inflamed, it can lead to a lot of discomfort for your cat.
In this blog, we’ll talk about how to get rid of pink eye in cats and everything else you need to know about this problem.
What Causes Conjunctivitis in Cats?
The causes of pink eye in cats involve infectious and non-infectious agents. These include:
Viral Infections
Viruses are observed as the most common cause of conjunctivitis in cats, with feline herpesvirus being the most prevalent. FHV-1 is highly contagious and can easily be transmitted through contact with cats, contaminated areas, and highly congested areas.
Another common viral cause is feline calicivirus, which also causes upper respiratory infections. Cats affected by calicivirus may develop conjunctivitis and other symptoms like fever, lethargy, sneezing, and nasal discharge.
Other viruses that could cause conjunctivitis in cats include feline infectious peritonitis and feline immunodeficiency virus. Notably, FIP’s dry form can cause ocular issues, including pink eye.
FIV, on the other hand, suppresses the cat’s immune system, making them vulnerable to secondary infections that could cause eye infections.
Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections are a frequent cause of cat pink eye and generally follow a viral infection. Chlamydia felis is one of the primary agents responsible for bacterial conjunctivitis.
Mycoplasma spp., another bacterial agent, can also lead to eye inflammation, although it may present with milder symptoms.
Other types of bacterial species that can cause conjunctivitis in cats include:
Staphylococcus
Streptococcus
Bartonella
Pseudomonas
Bacterial cat pink eye is especially common in shelters, boarding facilities, and homes with multiple cats. The infection is highly contagious, easily spreading through direct contact with infected cats and contaminated spaces.
Fungal Infections
Although less common, fungal infections can sometimes cause conjunctivitis in cats, especially those with compromised immune systems. Fungi such as Aspergillus, Candida, and Cryptococcus may infect the eyes, causing inflammation and discharge.
These types of infections can be contracted from the environment, as fungi love to stay in soil, decaying organic matter, bird droppings, and other related areas.
Allergies and Irritation
Feline allergies are one of the most common non-infectious triggers of cat pink eye. Allergens and irritants like pollen, dust, smoke, and chemicals cause eye irritation, redness, and discomfort.
Eye Trauma and Injuries
Scratches, bumps, and other injuries to your cat’s eyes can cause the conjunctiva to become inflamed and irritated. When this happens, the eyes can be vulnerable to infections and other problems. This can be common with cats who have an active outdoor lifestyle.
Even small foreign bodies, like debris and eyelashes, can damage the eye’s lining, causing inflammation of the conjunctiva.
Health Issues
Certain systemic conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, can also cause conjunctivitis in cats. Other eye conditions, including dry eye, corneal ulcers, uveitis, and glaucoma, can also cause the disease.
What are the Symptoms of Conjunctivitis in Cats?
The most noticeable symptom of conjunctivitis is the presence of redness and swelling of the eyes, which is why it’s commonly referred to as pink eye in cats.
Here are the common symptoms of conjunctivitis in cats:
Redness and Swelling. Your cat’s eyes may appear bloodshot, and the tissue around the eyes might look puffy, swollen, or irritated. This inflammation is the most common symptom of conjunctivitis and is often the first sign that cat owners notice.
Discharge from the Eyes. Eye discharge is a common symptom and can vary in appearance. It might be watery and clear in mild cases or thick and yellow/green in bacterial infections. The discharge may cause crusting around the eyes, especially after sleep.
Excessive Squinting. Cats with conjunctivitis often squint or blink more than usual because of irritation or sensitivity. In severe cases, they may keep their eyes closed entirely.
Sensitivity to Light. If a cat has pink eye, it can be overly sensitive to light. This is known as photophobia and can stem from eye inflammation. You’ll notice this symptom whem you see your cat avoiding areas where the sun is shining the most.
Rubbing or Pawing at the Eyes. Cats with conjunctivitis may instinctively rub their eyes with their paws or on furniture. While this behavior may temporarily relieve irritation, it can also worsen the inflammation or lead to secondary infections when scratches occur.
Third Eyelid Protrusion. The third eyelid, or nictitating membrane, may become more visible in cats with conjunctivitis. It may partially cover the eye or appear swollen, which is a clear sign that veterinary attention is needed.
How is Conjunctivitis in Cats Diagnosed?
Diagnosing this condition is quite simple with the tools and experience we have. Here’s a guide on the tests and methods we use to diagnose conjunctivitis in cats:
Eye Examination
Using specialized light or magnification tools, our experts thoroughly inspect your cat’s eyes. If your cat’s eyes have conjunctivitis, we’ll see any signs of damage, inflammation, or infection. These are clues that help us where to proceed to next.
Cytology
If an infection is suspected, we will collect a small sample of discharge or conjunctival cells for analysis. This helps us identify the type of inflammation, pathogen, and cells that are causing conjunctivitis in your cat.
Culture and Sensitivity Test
In this method, our vets collect a sample of the eye discharge and culture it at our in-house laboratory. The bacterial culture helps us identify the cause and determine which antibiotics will be effective against it.
Eye Staining
This test involves applying a special dye to the surface of the eye. It helps detect scratches, ulcers, or other injuries to the cornea, which could contribute to the symptoms of pink eye. Any damage is highlighted. The dye is harmless and easily rinsed away after the examination.
Polymerase Chain Reaction
A PCR test can determine the specific DNA of pathogens like feline herpes virus, effectively identifying the cause of your cat’s pink eye. The test is highly sensitive and can detect these pathogens even at the early stages.
Allergy Assessments
If infectious causes are ruled out, we may explore allergies or environmental factors as potential culprits. During this assessment, we may recommend changes to your cat’s home, food, and routine.
How is Conjunctivitis in Cats Treated?
Once conjunctivitis has been diagnosed in your cat, we’ll proceed to treatment. Because of the variety of causes, the options for getting rid of pink eye in cats will vary as well.
If a bacterial infection is the culprit, we’ll most likely prescribe antibiotic medications in the form of eye drops and ointments. These are applied directly to the eye to combat the infection and reduce inflammation.
Dealing with viral infections can be quite tricky, as these can’t be cured entirely. The process will mostly involve management techniques to make your cat’s life easier and more comfortable. However, antiviral medications can also be used in specific situations.
Additionally, supplementary medications such as corticosteroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs will be used to alleviate discomfort and reduce your cat's swelling. Your cat’s allergies will be managed to reduce the allergic reaction.
Artificial tear drops can help keep the eyes moist and prevent further discomfort for cats with dry or irritated eyes. These are especially useful for non-infectious cases of cat pink eye.
How to Prevent Conjunctivitis in Cats?
Preventing conjunctivitis in cats is often easier than treating it. Here are the steps you can take:
Schedule Eye Checkups
Routine vet visits are essential for catching potential health issues early, including conjunctivitis. Our pet ophthalmologists can monitor your cat’s overall eye health, administer treatments, and detect any early signs of eye problems before they worsen.
Keep Vaccinations Up to Date
Vaccinating your cat against common infectious diseases, such as feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus, is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of conjunctivitis. These vaccines are typically included in your cat’s core vaccinations.
Sanitize Living Areas
A clean home can help avoid eye infections in cats. Regularly clean your cat’s bedding, food and water bowls, and litter box. You should also sanitize the areas your cat frequents.
Groom Your Cat
Brushing, bathing, and keeping its eyes clean help prevent debris and bacteria from causing eye problems. Using the right tools should do the trick. If you need help, check out the grooming guides we have for each specific cat breed.
“Bright, clear eyes are a sign of a healthy cat. Protecting them means protecting your cat’s comfort and happiness.”
- Dr. Lidija Krvavac
Conclusion
Conjunctivitis in cats is a common eye problem that can cause significant pain and discomfort. While the issue can be managed and treated, it’s always important to take steps to prevent anything from getting in the way of your cat’s health and happiness.
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