Eye Inflammation in Cats
As powerful as cat's eyes are, they are also sensitive at times. Eye inflammations are therefore not uncommon and if not treated promptly, they can cause permanent damage and even the loss of the affected eye.
In the following article we will explain which types of eye inflammations occur in cats and with which symptoms they become noticeable. You will also learn how to care for your cat's eyes in a gentle way.
Different types of cat eye infections
There are different types of eye infections that occur in cats and can be caused by very different causes.
Cats often suffer especially from conjunctivitis. Inflammation of the cornea can also occur, while inflammation of the inner eye is rather rare.
Conjunctivitis in cats
The medical term for conjunctivitis is conjunctivitis. As the name suggests, this eye inflammation affects the conjunctiva of the cat.
The conjunctiva serves the cat's eye as protection against pathogens. In addition, as a sliding layer, it enables the eyeball to move.
Depending on the trigger, a distinction is made between infectious and non-infectious conjunctivitis. The non-infectious form can be triggered by injuries and foreign bodies, for example. Infectious conjunctivitis, on the other hand, is caused by pathogens such as viruses or bacteria.
Corneal inflammation in cats
In addition to the conjunctiva, the cornea in the cat's eye may also become inflamed. In this case it is called keratitis. A corneal inflammation in cats can also have different causes and appear in different forms.
Among the possible triggers are herpes viruses, which can also be responsible for cat rhinitis.
Inflammation outside the cat's eyes
In addition to actual eye inflammation, cats may also have inflammation of the tear ducts, tear glands or eyelids. Problems in the eye area should be taken just as seriously as problems inside the eyes.
Symptoms of an inflammation of the eyes in cats
Inflammation of the eyes in cats is noticeable by a number of symptoms. The symptoms depend on the severity of the inflammation.
If a cat suffers from an inflammation of the eyes, this can be noticed especially through the following symptoms:
- The eyes of the cat are watery and reddened.
- Swollen eyes and eyelids.
- The cat rubs its eyes frequently.
- Sensitivity to light and touch.
- A prolapsed nictitating membrane.
- Frequent blinking.
The symptoms can occur in one eye or both eyes. It’s also possible that the inflammation of the cat's eyes is initially unilateral and then spreads to the second eye.
Cats with eye inflammation must go to the vet as soon as possible
If you notice any symptoms, you should consult a vet as soon as possible. The problem is both unpleasant and dangerous for your cat and can cause permanent damage.
For example, an untreated conjunctivitis can cause ulcers to form and tear the cornea. If the latter is the case, aqueous humour leaks out. This leads to a deformation of the eyeball or even to the complete loss of the affected eye.
Eye inflammation should be treated correctly
In the treatment of ocular inflammation, the exact trigger is of utmost importance. Usually the veterinarian will first examine the eye with an ophthalmoscope.
In addition, he will most likely carry out a fluorescein test. With this test, possible corneal injuries can be detected and the patency of the tear ducts can be checked. It is also necessary to take a smear and examine it for pathogens such as viruses and bacteria.
Depending on the results of the tests, the inflammation of the eye is then treated, for example, with antivirals or antibiotics in the form of ointments and drops. If the inflammation of the cat's eyes was not caused by pathogens, however, it is first of all important to eliminate the cause.
In addition, suitable eye drops can then help to care for the inflamed eyes of the cat and alleviate the symptoms.
High-quality eye care drops for healthy cat eyes
Healthy eyes are of great importance for the well-being of your four-legged friend. Especially with breeds that have naturally sensitive eyes, conscientious eye care is therefore very important.
For this reason we have developed special eye care drops for cats. Well-tolerated ingredients such as chamomile extract and aloe vera enable a particularly gentle cleaning of the cat's eyes.
I Love My Cat eye care drops are ideal for daily eye care for sensitive cats and as an effective support for the treatment of eye inflammations.
Eye inflammation in cats - our conclusion
Eye infections are a serious matter for your cat. Without prompt treatment, the inflammation can have a lasting effect on your cat's vision.
If you notice any symptoms, we recommend that you visit a vet as soon as possible.
Keep in mind that certain pathogens can affect your eyes as well. It’s therefore quite possible that you could be infected by your four-legged friend.
Leave your comment