There are several tell-tale signs of feline eye infections you might notice. The most common include:

• Swollen eyelids
• Redness
• Cloudy eyes
• Runny or weepy eyes
• Excessive squinting or sensitivity to light
• Rubbing and scratching at their eyes
• A lump near their eyes
• Bumping into objects or appearing clumsy
• Increased visibility of the third eyelid
• Change in eye color

If your cat exhibits any of these symptoms, be sure to contact your vet. It is often a simple eye infection, but it's always best to seek veterinary advice.

Some causes of cat eye problems are more common than others scratches or bacterial infections are frequent, while conditions like glaucoma are less so. Common causes of eye disease in cats include:

• Glaucoma (increased eye pressure)
• Bacterial eye infections
• Upper respiratory infections, including cat flu
• Viral infections, such as feline herpesvirus
• Cat conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva, a thin membrane that protects the eye)
• Physical injuries, such as scratches
• Corneal ulcers
• Allergies
• Cancer

Signs of these conditions can include cat eye discharge, redness, and other cat eye problems. Conjunctivitis is particularly common in cats, and upper respiratory infections can also lead to eye infections. If you notice any of these symptoms or think your cat is suffering from an eye infection, contact your vet without delay to ensure your cat remains healthy.

There are several different causes of cat eye infections in cats. For instance, an infection might be due to a virus or secondary to a scratch. Here are some of the most common causes:

Bacterial eye infections in cats can be transmitted from one cat to another or may arise as a secondary issue due to a viral infection or injury. It's important to check your cat regularly, as older cats and unvaccinated kittens are generally more vulnerable to these eye infections.

Viruses can lead to upper respiratory infections or cat flu, which often result in nasal discharge and sneezing in cats. These respiratory viruses can also cause inflammation of the eyes, leading to ocular discharge or watery eyes. Older cats and unvaccinated kittens are particularly prone to these infections, so it's important to consult your vet if your cat shows any unusual symptoms.

Cats are naturally curious and their playful behavior can sometimes lead to injuries. They might scratch their eye on a claw or a sharp object found at home or in the garden, potentially causing a bacterial infection. This can result in symptoms such as eye discharge and discomfort. If you think your cat has scratched its cat eye or shows signs of a bacterial infection, contact your vet promptly. Prompt treatment, including the use of eye drops if recommended, is crucial to ensure your cat remains healthy and to prevent serious complications.

Cat conjunctivitis is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent membrane that covers the surface of the eye. This condition can be caused by bacterial or viral infections, as well as allergies. If you notice symptoms such as eye discharge or redness, it's essential to consult your vet. In some cases, your vet may prescribe antibiotics or recommend eye drops to treat the infection. Early treatment is crucial to ensure your cat remains healthy and to prevent further suffering.

Infections can sometimes arise secondary to allergic conjunctivitis, and skin allergies in cats may also cause symptoms such as watery eyes and itching. If you suspect your cat is suffering from allergies or other issues, consult your vet. They can help determine the cause of the symptoms whether viral, allergic, or non infectious and advise on appropriate diagnostic tests. Making lifestyle adjustments to reduce allergen exposure can also benefit your cat’s overall health.

If you notice any signs of cat conjunctivitis or other eye problems, it’s essential to contact your vet promptly. Your vet will assess the clinical signs and provide treatment to ensure your cat remains healthy and to prevent any lasting damage to their cat eyes.

There are several treatment options for cat eye infections, including those associated with cat conjunctivitis. Treatments generally involve drops or ointments applied directly to the cat eye. The best approach will depend on the specific diagnosis, whether the infection is viral, bacterial, or non-infectious. It’s crucial to follow your vet’s advice to give your cat the best chance of a complete recovery and ensure a healthy cat.

Treatment options may vary based on the clinical signs observed, such as changes in tear production or eye discharge. For common causes of cat eye infections, including viruses or other factors, your vet will determine the appropriate treatment. Possible treatments could include:

• Oral antibiotics
• Eye drops
• Topical solutions like lubricants
• Pain relief

If your cat is showing signs of cat conjunctivitis or other eye issues, contact your vet as soon as possible. Timely intervention will help address the cause and prevent your cat from suffering any further. Your vet will provide a treatment plan based on the specific clinical signs and ensure your cat’s eyes remain healthy.

While it's possible to reduce the risk of your cat developing an eye infection, it’s not feasible to prevent them entirely. The best approach is to be proactive if you notice any issues with your cat's eyes. Additionally, you should:

• Schedule regular checkups with your vet
• Ensure annual vaccinations are up to date
• Monitor your cat’s eyes at home for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, watery eyes, discharge, sensitivity, and squinting
• Avoid overcrowding, especially with young kittens

We hope our guide on cat eye infections has been helpful.