Retinal Detachment in Cats

The retina is at the back of the eye and converts light and nerve impulses into vision. The retina can become detached from its underlying tissue causing partial or complete blindness in cats.

• Symptoms of retinal detachment include dilated pupil(s), unequal pupil size, and vision impairment, and bleeding inside the eye
• Potential causes include congenital, or acquired conditions such as high blood pressure, injury, previous eye surgery, and infectious diseases
• A detached retina is diagnosed by complete ophthalmic exam and/or ultrasound of the eye
• Depending on the type of retinal detachment and the underlying cause, treatment is either medication to manage symptoms or surgery
• When treated quickly, cats with a retinal detachment may be able to see again, but in most cases, the affected eye remains blind for life

Retinal detachment is the second-most common cause of blindness in cats, but is uncommon overall. Some of the underlying conditions associated with retinal detachment are more common and have specific breed and lifestyle predispositions, but do not always lead to retinal detachment. Early detection and treatment of chronic illnesses help ensure disease progression does not result in complications such as retinal detachment.

Any unexpected loss of eyesight is considered an emergency and requires immediate medical attention to increase the likelihood of restoring vision.

Retinal detachment occurs when the retina loses its connection to the tissue underneath it. This can be congenital or caused by injury to the eye. It may also be a complication associated with other underlying conditions.

Vision loss in cats usually presents as

• Lack or reduction in movement
• Bumping into things
• Falling excessively or missing jumps

The first step a veterinarian takes when presented with a case of possible retinal detachment is a full physical exam, including an in-depth eye exam. Special equipment may be required to characterize the retinal detachment, which may require referral to a specialist. Ultrasound imaging may be employed. Blood work and urinalysis to identify underlying disease processes are likely to be performed.

In some cases, treating the underlying condition directly may resolve the problem. In other cases, surgery is required to correct any breaks or tears in the retina. Neither treatment guarantees restoration of vision.

Several follow up appointments may be warranted to monitor the affected eye, as well as the other eye if it did not have symptoms upon initial presentation.

For cats with permanent vision loss, at home supportive care is required to ensure a safe home environment. Some examples include removing potential hazards in the home (sharp objects/furniture), using tactile surfaces in the home, and keeping cats indoors.

The prognosis for recovery is good, but permanent vision loss is common.

Retinal detachment is not contagious. There is no specific way to prevent retinal detachment, but regular veterinary care can help identify underlying causes before severe complications arise. As there may be a genetic predisposition, affected animals should not be bred.

Retinal detachment is uncommon in cats.

• Treating underlying disease process
• Surgery
• Ongoing home care to manage blindness