What are the common symptoms of an eye infection in cats?
Some of the most common symptoms of an eye infection in cats include:
- Redness, swelling, and discharge in or around the eyes – This could be clear, yellow, green, or contain mucus or pus (1).
- Squinting or keeping the eyes shut – Your cat may try to protect their eyes from light due to pain or irritation (2).
- Pawing at the eyes – Cats may rub their eyes with their paws in an attempt to relieve discomfort (3).
- Rubbing the eyes on surfaces – You may notice your cat rubbing their eyes on furniture, carpet, or other surfaces to scratch an itch or try to clear drainage (2).
These symptoms indicate irritation, inflammation, or infection in the eye. Eye infections in cats can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. While some mild infections may resolve on their own, it’s important to have your vet examine your cat if you notice any of these concerning signs.
References:
- https://bluepearlvet.com/medical-articles-for-pet-owners/what-are-symptoms-of-eye-infections-in-cats/
- https://www.purina.co.uk/articles/cats/health/symptoms/cat-eye-infections
What causes eye infections in cats?
There are several potential causes of eye infections in cats:
Bacterial infections – Bacteria such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Pasteurella can cause conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva membrane around the eye). Bacterial infections often produce yellow or green eye discharge in cats.
Viral infections – Feline herpesvirus is a common viral infection in cats that can lead to upper respiratory infections and eye infections. The calicivirus can also cause eye discharge and ulcers.
Fungal infections – Fungal infections are less common but can occur, especially in cats with weakened immune systems. Fungi such as Cryptococcus or Aspergillus can infect the eye.
Allergies – Allergies to pollen, mold, dust mites, and other environmental allergens can cause conjunctivitis in cats. Allergic reactions lead to eye redness, swelling, and itchy discharge.
Foreign objects – Debris, dirt, or other foreign materials like foxtails getting lodged in the eye can cause irritation, discharge, blinking, and discomfort. Cats can also get scratched in the eye.
Eye injuries – Blunt trauma, scratches, or other damage to the eye can introduce infection-causing bacteria. Injuries that damage the cornea are especially prone to bacterial infections.
Conjunctivitis is the most common type of eye infection in cats. It can arise from infectious causes like bacteria, viruses, or fungi, or from irritants like allergies or foreign material in the eye. Prompt veterinary care is important for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Sources:
https://www.purina.co.uk/articles/cats/health/symptoms/cat-eye-infections
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/conjunctivitis-in-cats
How can I tell if my cat is in pain from an eye infection?
There are several signs that may indicate your cat is experiencing pain or discomfort from an eye infection:
Squinting, rubbing, and excessively pawing at the eyes are common signs of irritation and discomfort. You may notice your cat squinting or keeping the infected eye closed. They may also rub or scratch at the eye area in an attempt to relieve irritation.
Behavior changes like lethargy, irritability, and hiding are also potential indicators of pain. Your normally active cat may seem depressed or withdrawn. They may hiss, growl, or act grumpy when approached due to discomfort.
Decreased appetite can signal illness in cats. A cat in pain from an eye infection may seem uninterested in food or treats.
Some cats may be reluctant to be handled or petted around the face and head when experiencing eye pain. Hiding is another sign of discomfort in cats.
According to Cat Eye Infection Symptoms – BluePearl Pet Hospital, other possible signs of pain and irritation from an eye infection include increased blinking or winking, watery eyes, and redness or swelling around the eyes.
Paying attention to changes in your cat’s regular behavior and activity levels can help identify when they may be in discomfort or distress from an eye issue that requires veterinary attention.
When should I take my cat to the vet for an eye infection?
You should take your cat to the vet if an eye infection lasts more than 1-2 days without improving. According to Purina, extended duration of symptoms indicates a more serious infection that requires veterinary attention and medication. Worsening symptoms are another sign to seek vet care right away. Increased redness, swelling, discharge, or squinting means the infection is progressing and needs treatment.
Cats can’t tell us if they’re in pain or discomfort. Severe symptoms like a swollen, bulging eye or green/yellow discharge suggest the infection may be causing substantial irritation. Don’t wait it out – contact your vet promptly if your cat seems to be in distress. Finally, take your cat to the emergency vet if symptoms arise suddenly and severely affect their eye or vision. Left untreated, some eye infections can progress rapidly and cause permanent damage.
How are eye infections in cats diagnosed?
Veterinarians use several techniques to accurately diagnose eye infections in cats. These methods help identify the cause of the infection and guide treatment.
The diagnostic process typically starts with a medical history and physical exam of the eyes. The vet will ask about your cat’s symptoms and look closely at the eyes for signs of redness, swelling, discharge or other abnormalities.
One common eye exam is the fluorescein stain test. The vet places a special orange dye called fluorescein in the eye. It highlights scratches, ulcers or other damage when viewed under a blue light.
The vet may also take a sample of the eye discharge and examine it under a microscope. This can detect bacteria, viruses, fungi or other infectious organisms causing conjunctivitis.
Cultures or special stains help identify the specific type of infectious agent. X-rays or other imaging exams check for underlying issues. These diagnostic steps allow the vet to pinpoint the cause and best treatment option for the eye infection.
Sources:
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/conjunctivitis-in-cats
https://drgoodvet.com/pet-health-plus/eye-infections-in-cats/
How are eye infections treated in cats?
Eye infections in cats are commonly treated with antibiotic, antiviral or antifungal eye drops or ointments applied directly to the infected eye. Some common prescription eye drops used include Terramycin®, Vetropolycin®, and Gentamicin.[1] These antibiotic eye drops fight off bacteria causing infection and inflammation.
Anti-inflammatory eye medications may also be prescribed to reduce swelling, redness, and discomfort. Common anti-inflammatory eye drops for cats include Prednisolone Acetate.[2] These help manage inflammation while treating the root cause of infection.
In some cases, vets may treat underlying illnesses contributing to recurrent eye infections in cats. This may include medications for conditions like feline herpesvirus, autoimmune disorders, or allergies if they are worsening eye health.[3]
So in summary, a multi-pronged approach is often needed to clear eye infections in cats and prevent them from returning or worsening. Topical antibiotic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory eye drops are typically the first line of treatment.
[1] https://www.charlotte.carolinavet.com/site/charlotte-emergency-vet-blog/2020/08/31/treatment-for-eye-infections-in-cats-antibiotics-and-more
[2] https://www.webmd.com/pets/cats/eye-discharge-in-cats
[3] https://www.purina.co.uk/articles/cats/health/symptoms/cat-eye-infections
Are eye infections in cats contagious to humans or other pets?
Some types of cat eye infections can be contagious, while others are not. Viral infections like feline herpesvirus and chlamydia are very contagious to other cats. Bacterial infections and fungal infections tend to be less contagious. While humans cannot catch infections like feline herpesvirus, bacterial infections like staphylococcus can potentially spread between cats and humans.
To reduce the risk of spreading eye infections between your cat and other pets or family members:
- Avoid direct contact with discharge from your cat’s infected eyes.
- Do not allow your infected cat to groom other pets.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after touching the infected area.
- Use separate food and water bowls for your infected cat.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces your cat touches frequently.
- Seek treatment from your vet as soon as you notice symptoms.
With prompt diagnosis and treatment, most feline eye infections can be managed without spreading to other pets or people in the household.
How can I relieve pain and discomfort for my cat?
An eye infection can be very painful for cats. There are some ways you can help relieve your cat’s pain and discomfort from an eye infection at home:
Prescription pain medication from the vet – Your vet may prescribe an oral pain medication like buprenorphine to help control your cat’s discomfort. Pain management is an important part of treatment.
Cold compresses on eyes – Apply a clean, cold compress or damp washcloth to your cat’s infected eyes several times a day. This can have an analgesic effect and reduce inflammation. Make sure to use a separate compress for each eye.
Keeping lights low and activity limited – Cats with eye infections are often photosensitive. Keep your home dimly lit and limit your cat’s activity to allow their eyes to rest as much as possible. This will help them avoid sources of discomfort.
While these measures can help, it’s still important to have your vet diagnose and properly treat the underlying infection. Proper medication and eye drops are often necessary for full recovery and comfort.[1]
How can I prevent eye infections in my cat?
There are several steps cat owners can take to help prevent eye infections in their cats:
Keep their eyes clean. Gently wipe away any discharge daily with a soft, damp cloth. This helps prevent bacteria from building up.
Avoid exposure to irritants. Things like dust, cigarette smoke, and cat litter can irritate your cat’s eyes. Keep their environment clean and minimize irritants.
Treat underlying conditions. Issues like dental disease, allergies, or viral infections can make cats prone to eye infections. Managing these conditions can lower risk.
Limit contact with infected cats. Isolate cats with active eye infections to prevent spreading to other pets. This is especially important for cats in multi-cat households.
For more tips, check out this article from Purina on ways to help prevent eye infections in cats.
When should I seek emergency care for an eye infection in cats?
Some signs of an eye infection in cats require immediate emergency veterinary care. If you notice any of the following symptoms, take your cat to the emergency vet right away:
– Sudden blindness – If your cat suddenly loses vision or seems unable to see, this requires rapid treatment to try to restore sight and prevent permanent damage. According to the ASPCA, sudden blindness is an ocular emergency that warrants immediate vet evaluation.
– Eye bulging or appearing larger – If your cat’s eye seems to be protruding or bulging out, this can indicate a severe infection or injury that requires urgent vet attention, per https://bluepearlvet.com/medical-articles-for-pet-owners/what-are-symptoms-of-eye-infections-in-cats/.
– No improvement with treatment – If you’ve been treating your cat’s eye infection at home but see no signs of improvement within 2-3 days, further veterinary care is needed. Worsening symptoms also warrant an urgent vet visit.
– Severe swelling, bleeding, trauma – Any eye swelling, bleeding, trauma or other damage requires emergency vet assessment to check for injuries and prevent vision loss.
In short, if your cat exhibits sudden blindness, bulging eyes, lack of improvement, or trauma to the eyes, seek emergency vet care right away. Prompt treatment is essential for preventing permanent eye damage and vision loss in cats.