Common Cat Eye Problems Explained.

Cat eye problems can be both unsightly and painful for your pet. Knowing about the structure of the eye and common problems that can occur, the easier you will be able to diagnose any symptoms of ill cat health, and give appropriate cat care.

The cat’s eye has basically the same structure as our own. But there are a few significant differences:

Cats only need a sixth of the light required to see as humans.

They are able to alter their range of vision more quickly.

They have the nictitating membrane, a third eyelid to protect their eye.

Common Symptoms of cat eye problems.

Look out for any signs of eye injury or infection and visit your vet immediately. Some of the signs are:

Red inner eyelids
The third eyelid visible and coming across the eye.
A half closed eye
Cloudiness within the eyeball
Excessive discharges
Tear staining around the eye.

External Eye problems

Cats are unfortunately prone to the odd fight and one of the most common injuries is a claw scratch across the eyeball, Ouch! If you notice that your cat is keeping it’s eye half closed and that fluid is pouring out of it, this is an emergency. Don’t delay, take your cat to the vets straight away. If the injury is severe the eye may be lost, less severe injuries can result in ulcers forming on the surface of the eye.

Another condition is Conjunctivitis. This is when the soft pink tissue around the eye becomes inflamed and irritated. Possible causes are allergies or a viral infection. A yellow/green discharge is often seen and special cat eye drops will be required as well as antibiotics to clear this condition up.

Blocked tear ducks are a common cat eye problem for longhaired cats, especially the ones with a squashed face as in the Persian cat. Although this is not a painful condition in itself, you should always wipe your cat’s eyes with a soft damp cloth to keep them clear. If they are left and become very blocked your vet will have to flush them and this will require a general anaesthetic.

Cat eye problems and diseases

There are three serious cat eye problems, which can lead to blindness:

Progressive retinal atrophy or PRA. The retina of the eye steadily over time degenerates and eventually the cat will go completely blind. The condition is found in both pedigree and non-pedigree cats, but is inherited by some breeds like the Abyssinian. Unfortunately it cannot be treated.

Cataracts are mainly seen in old or diabetic cats. The lens of the eye becomes cloudy and if left untreated will become so opaque that the cat will no longer be able to see. The only treatment is surgery.

Glaucoma is when too much fluid builds up within the eye and exerts pressure on the retina, damaging the cells, which causes pain and will eventually result in the loss of sight. It can be treated with pills, eye drops or surgery, but only if caught early enough. Symptoms are, enlarged eyeballs, fixed pupils and a cloudy cornea.