Cats use their eyes to see and interact with us. These are special tools that help them go about their daily routines and activities. When these get damaged, their entire lifestyle and overall health will be compromised.
One such problem is a corneal ulcer, which, as the name suggests, affects the cornea. The cornea is the clear outer layer of a cat's eye and is essential for vision.
In this blog, we’re going to cover the specifics of a cat corneal ulcer, from what it is and how it affects cats to how it's treated and prevented.
Key Takeaways
Corneal ulcers are painful, open sores on the surface of the eye.
It’s generally caused by viruses, bacteria, injuries, foreign bodies, chemicals, and other eye conditions.
Treatment consists of surgery, medical management, and supportive care.
What Is a Corneal Ulcer in Cats?
A corneal ulcer is essentially a painful, open sore on the outer surface of a cat’s eye. It’s a condition that requires immediate veterinary care due to the cornea's importance and the severity of the problem.
A cat’s cornea has many functions, including:
Protection against bacteria and debris
Helps direct light into the retina
Assists with providing vision and clarity
When this layer becomes damaged, the open sore can lose its function and endanger the cat’s eyesight and overall health.
What Are the Symptoms of Corneal Ulcers in Cats?
The signs are generally localized to the eyes, making them relatively noticeable. Here are the common observations our veterinarians have.
Excessive Squinting and Blinking. Cats with eye issues, such as corneal ulcers, often squint and blink more frequently in response to irritation and discomfort.
Redness and Inflammation. The eyes and their surrounding tissues can appear red and inflamed.
Tearing and Eye Discharge. A cat with a corneal ulcer may have increased tear production or thick eye discharge. The type of discharge can depend on the causative agent.
Sensitivity to Light. Some cats may become sensitive to light. They’ll start to avoid rooms with bright light and hide in corners, underneath sofas, and enclosed spaces.
Pawing at the Eyes. As the condition progresses, cats will experience increasing irritation in their eyes. This can make them paw at or rub at them, which can worsen the corneal ulcer.
Cloudy or Hazy Eye Appearance. The more damage to the cornea, the cloudier or hazier the eyes will look. This can interfere with a cat's vision.
Behavioral Changes. Cats with corneal ulcers will have noticeable behavioral changes. You might notice decreased activity, reduced appetite, or increased irritability.
What Causes Corneal Ulcers in Cats?
This eye condition can be caused by eye injuries, infections, abnormalities, and other conditions.
Injuries and Trauma
Trauma and injuries to the eye are among the most common reasons why cats get corneal ulcers. Sharp objects, scratching, and small allergens can all contribute to the open sores. Common situations include:
Rough play with other pets
Fights with stray cats
Excessive pawing at the eye
Rubbing the face on furniture
Contact with dust, grass, or sand
Chemical Exposure
Chemicals are a less common cause, but still possible. This risk involves cleaning products and household chemicals. The corneal tissue is sensitive, meaning even a small amount can be highly serious.
Eye Infections
Cat eye infections from bacterial, fungal, and viral agents can lead to corneal ulcers. Feline herpesvirus is the leading cause because it directly infects corneal epithelial cells.
Bacterial ulcers often produce a yellow-green discharge and can progress quickly without treatment. Fungal ulcers are more common in outdoor cats that come into contact with organic material such as soil or decaying plant matter.
Aside from causing eye ulcers in cats, these infections can also delay healing and recovery.
Eye Conditions
In some cats, eyelid abnormalities and structural issues can increase their risk of getting corneal ulcers. One of the most common genetic conditions is feline entropion, a condition in which the eyelid rolls inward.
Dry eye can also be a cause, as the impaired tear production makes the eye vulnerable to foreign bodies and infections. This significantly increases the risk of feline corneal ulcers.
Other possible conditions include ectropion, eyelid tumors, conjunctivitis, and glaucoma.
How Do Vets Diagnose Cat Corneal Ulcers?
We primarily diagnose corneal ulcers through ocular inspection and an eye stain test. Other tests will also be conducted to rule out other conditions.
Ocular Examination
Our pet ophthalmologists will look for signs of trauma, inflammation, infections, and abnormalities. A numbing drop can reduce discomfort during the assessment.
Eye Stain Test
An eye staining test is the most commonly used method for diagnosing corneal ulcers in cats. A special, orange dye is applied to the eyes. Once applied, we'll shine a blue light that highlights any form of damage or scratches in a bright green color.
Schirmer Tear Test
To rule out dry eye, we may do a Schirmer tear test. This also helps us assess your cat’s tear production, as this condition may aggravate ulcers. It works by using a strip of paper to measure tear production.
Cytology
If there’s excessive discharge or the ulcer isn’t healing as expected, we may collect a sample for a quick microscopic examination. From this sample, we can check for the presence of microorganisms.
Culture and Sensitivity Test
In some non-responsive cases, we might take a swab sample to the lab. The culture helps us identify the specific pathogen present, allowing us to know which medication works best against it.
How Are Corneal Ulcers in Cats Treated?
Treatment consists of surgical correction, medication, and supportive care.
Surgical Correction
When deep ulcers are involved, surgery may be necessary. Here are the methods commonly used:
Corneal Debridement. A corneal debridement involves removing the dead tissue from the cornea's surface. This will promote healing and recovery.
Conjunctival Graft. A conjunctival graft uses tissue from the cat’s own inner eyelid to cover and protect a deep or infected corneal ulcer. This graft supplies blood and structural support to the cornea, speeding up the healing process.
Superficial Keratectomy. A procedure that involves removing the diseased superficial corneal epithelium and stroma. A superficial keratectomy is generally used for chronic, non-healing ulcers, especially when scar tissue is involved.
Medications
For superficial ulcers, medications are often enough to treat the problem. Specific prescriptions will depend on your cat's current condition. Generally, these will include antibiotics, antivirals, pain relievers, and anti-inflammatories.
Oral medications will be needed for systemic causes, while pain medications and atropine drops can also be administered to provide relief and comfort.
Supportive Care
To ensure continued recovery, cats will need help. This includes lifestyle changes, activity restrictions, E-collars, and follow-up checkups.
Recovery and Prognosis
Cat corneal ulcers generally heal well within 3-7 days. However, deep or infected ulcers may take 1-2 weeks, possibly longer. The prognosis is generally excellent with immediate treatment and consistent recovery management.
Following the complete course of medication and going back for follow-up checkups helps significantly.
How to Prevent Corneal Ulcers in Cats?
You won’t be able to prevent corneal ulcers in your cat entirely, but there are some smart ways to reduce the risk.
Schedule Regular Eye Checks
When our vets check on your cat's eyes, we can identify potential problems before they turn into serious conditions. These wellness exams help secure your cat's eye health and allow us to provide recommendations for home care.
Protect Your Cat’s Eyes
Eye trauma is the leading cause of corneal ulcers in cats, so protecting their eyes is a must. Always supervise your cat when going outside. Plus, it's best to avoid dangerous areas such as bushy places and unclean spaces.
Store Chemicals Away Safely
Always keep your cat away from toxic chemicals. Start by choosing a dedicated space for household chemicals. Next, secure it so your cat can't access it.
Clean Your Cat’s Eyes
We recommend checking your cat's eyes weekly for debris, discharge, or dirt. When there's any present, wipe it away with a soft, damp cloth. Do this slowly.
“Your cat’s eyes are delicate, and keeping them safe is one of the many ways we can show our love.”
- Dr. Nenad Misura
Final Thoughts
Corneal ulcers in cats are painful, severe eye conditions that can hinder vision and disrupt routines. Fortunately, these sores can be treated and managed relatively easily, especially with early detection.
With the right knowledge, you can ensure that your cat gets the care it needs to stay safe and comfortable with perfectly clear vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a cat corneal ulcer heal on its own?
Generally, corneal ulcers in cats don’t heal on their own. They require medical care and treatment to ensure smooth and speedy healing. When treated, small corneal ulcers can take about a week to heal. Deeper ulcers will require a few weeks or months.
Is this an emergency?
Yes, corneal ulcers in cats are considered a medical emergency, especially if they are deep. This condition can cause immense pain to cats and long-term issues, which is why prompt treatment is needed to avoid serious complications.
What happens if an eye ulcer is left untreated?
If a feline eye ulcer is left untreated, cats can experience chronic pain, permanent scarring of the cornea, and even vision loss. This can also lead to more serious damage, infections, and complications.
Are these contagious to other cats?
It depends on the cause. For example, ulcers caused by feline herpesvirus are highly contagious and can spread to other cats. Ulcers caused by injuries, foreign objects, or chemical burns are not directly contagious.
Can corneal ulcers in cats lead to blindness?
Yes, severe and untreated corneal ulcers can cause blindness. Deep ulcers can rupture the eye and cause irreparable damage.
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