Eye Infection in Cats
Key takeaways
Cats experience different types of eye infections from bacterial, fungal, viral, or parasitic agents that infect the conjunctiva, cornea, eyelids, or interior structures, leading to conjunctivitis, keratitis, blepharitis, or uveitis, respectively.
- Eye infections are common and symptoms include redness, runny eyes, squinting, crusty discharge, holding the eye closed, light sensitivity, and rubbing the eye
- Eye infections aren’t usually emergencies, but immediate veterinary attention is recommended to avoid permanent damage or vision loss
- Complete ophthalmologic exams, cytology, culture, bloodwork, and biopsy are diagnostic options for determining the type and cause of an eye infection
- Some eye infections are contagious and have the potential to spread to other members of the household, including humans
- Treatment depends on the underlying cause, and commonly includes benign neglect, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory eye drops, or surgery
Connect with a vet to get more information about your pet’s health.
A closer look: Eye Infection in Cats
Cats commonly experience several different types of eye infections. Eye infections aren’t life-threatening, but are often treated as emergencies in order to minimize the risk of permanent damage or vision loss. The prognosis for eye infections varies depending on the underlying cause. Some resolve on their own, some respond quickly to surgery and/or medications, and some become chronic conditions.
A foreign object, injury, or eyelid disorder may also cause inflammation that looks like an eye infection.
Connect with a vet to get more information
Risk factors
Viral upper respiratory tract infections are one of the most common reasons behind eye infections in cats.
Allergies don’t cause ocular symptoms in cats as commonly as they do in people.
Feline leukemia virus, feline immunodeficiency virus, and feline infectious peritonitis are among the most common causes of feline uveitis.
Possible causes
Common types of eye infections can be categorized according to which tissue is affected:
- Conjunctivitis (lining of the eye)
- Keratitis (cornea)
- Blepharitis (eyelid)
- Uveitis (interior structures of the eye)
Main symptoms
Testing and diagnosis
In some cases a physical and ocular exam is sufficient to diagnose a cat’s eye infection. A full ophthalmologic exam is critical for assessing all types of eye infections, and additional diagnostic options include:
- Blood tests
- Bacterial or fungal culture
- Cytology
- Biopsy
- Ultrasound
Steps to Recovery
Treatment varies depending on the nature of the underlying condition. Eye drops and ointments are often used to deliver:
- Antibiotics
- Antifungals
- Anti-inflammatories
- Immunosuppression (for KCS)
Most cats recover from viral upper respiratory tract infections without therapeutic intervention, but nursing care can play a role:
- Cleaning eye discharge
- Feeding moist, warmed food
- Fluid therapy
- Supplemental feeding
- Increased heat and humidity (put the cat in a hot and steamy bathroom to relieve congestion)
Eyelid disorders and tumors may require surgery.
Eye infections usually respond well to topical treatment, but some types require lifelong medication or surgery. KCS is an example of a lifelong condition.
The duration of eye infections varies widely.
Eye infections due to viral upper respiratory tract infections usually improve within a couple of weeks, but recurring flare-ups are common.
Prevention
Routine vaccinations and parasite control play a role in preventing some of the most common causes of feline eye infections.
Bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic eye infections all are potentially contagious. Isolation of affected cats may be indicated.
Is Eye Infection in Cats common?
Yes, especially in association with viral upper respiratory tract infections.
