Common Eye Diseases in Cats: Expert Care at The Vale Veterinary Group

Feline eye conditions can develop suddenly and, if left untreated, may lead to pain, discomfort, or vision loss. At The Vale Veterinary Group in Cullompton, our team of specialists provides advanced diagnostics and tailored treatment plans to manage a wide range of feline eye diseases.

If you notice squinting, excessive tearing, or changes in eye colour, it’s essential to seek veterinary care promptly. Contact our team for expert advice and specialized ophthalmic care.

Recognizing Signs of Eye Problems in Cats

Cats are masters at hiding discomfort, so pet owners must be vigilant in spotting early warning signs of eye disease. Symptoms that require veterinary attention include:

  • Redness or swelling around the eyes
  • Excessive tearing or discharge (clear, yellow, or green)
  • Frequent squinting or blinking
  • Cloudiness or a change in eye colour
  • Rubbing or pawing at the eyes
  • A visible third eyelid covering part of the eye
  • Dilated or uneven pupils

Some eye problems can indicate underlying health conditions such as viral infections, immune disorders, or trauma. A specialist ophthalmic exam helps pinpoint the exact cause and determine the best course of treatment.

Learn more about feline vision problems.

Common Eye Diseases in Cats

At The Vale Veterinary Group, we frequently diagnose and treat the following feline eye conditions:

1. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the pink tissue lining the eyelids. It can be caused by:

  • Viral infections, such as feline herpesvirus
  • Bacterial infections, which may require antibiotic treatment
  • Allergies or environmental irritants, including smoke and dust

Affected cats may show red, swollen eyes with discharge. Early treatment prevents discomfort and secondary infections.

Read more about feline conjunctivitis.

2. Corneal Ulcers

The cornea is the transparent layer covering the front of the eye. Ulcers develop due to trauma, infections, or chronic dry eye. Symptoms include:

  • Squinting or excessive blinking
  • Cloudiness or a visible defect on the eye surface
  • Increased tear production

Corneal ulcers require immediate veterinary attention to prevent scarring or perforation. Treatment may involve medicated eye drops or surgical intervention in severe cases.

Find out more about corneal ulcers in cats.

3. Uveitis (Inflammation Inside the Eye)

Uveitis is a painful condition affecting the internal structures of the eye, often linked to viral infections, immune diseases, or trauma. Signs include:

  • Squinting and light sensitivity
  • A cloudy or bluish eye appearance
  • Pupil size changes (one pupil may appear smaller than the other)

Uveitis can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly with anti-inflammatory medications.

4. Entropion (Eyelid Rolling Inward)

Entropion is a genetic condition where a cat’s eyelids roll inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea. This leads to:

  • Chronic irritation and inflammation
  • Increased tear production
  • Corneal ulcers if left untreated

Surgery is often the best solution to correct the eyelid position and prevent long-term damage.

Explore more about entropion treatment.

5. Cataracts and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Cataracts cause cloudiness in the eye lens, while PRA is a genetic disease leading to progressive blindness. Early detection allows for specialized care and vision management.

Some cases may be linked to diabetes or trauma, requiring additional systemic health evaluations.

Learn about common feline eye conditions.

Specialized Ophthalmic Care at The Vale Veterinary Group

At The Vale Veterinary Group, we offer advanced diagnostics and treatments for feline eye diseases, including:

Ophthalmic exams with specialized imaging to assess eye health
Targeted medical therapy, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and lubricants
Surgical interventions for conditions like entropion and severe corneal ulcers

Our team of veterinary specialists ensures that every cat receives the highest standard of eye care.

Preventing Eye Diseases in Cats

  • Routine vet check-ups to monitor eye health and catch issues early
  • Keep vaccinations up to date to protect against feline herpesvirus and other infections
  • Provide a safe home environment to minimize eye injuries
  • Regularly clean discharge from the eyes with a soft, damp cloth

If you notice any sudden changes in your cat’s eyes, seek veterinary care immediately. Early intervention prevents complications and preserves vision.

Frequently Asked Questions About Feline Eye Conditions

Q: What should I do if my cat suddenly squints or has a cloudy eye?

A: Seek veterinary attention immediately. Squinting and cloudiness could indicate infection, corneal ulcers, or uveitis, all of which require urgent treatment.

Q: Can cats go blind from untreated eye diseases?

A: Yes, chronic conditions like uveitis, glaucoma, or PRA can lead to irreversible vision loss. Early diagnosis and management are essential.

Q: How can I tell if my cat has an eye infection or just allergies?

A: Eye infections often come with green or yellow discharge, while allergies typically cause clear, watery discharge and mild redness. A veterinary exam can confirm the cause.

Expert Ophthalmic Care at The Vale Veterinary Group

At The Vale Veterinary Group, our specialist veterinarians are dedicated to preserving and restoring feline vision. Whether your cat has a minor irritation or a complex eye disease, we provide advanced diagnostics, tailored treatments, and compassionate care.

Contact our team for more information

Investing in your cat’s eye health today ensures a bright and comfortable future for your beloved feline companion.