by Julie G. Hughes

Created on: February 10, 2009   Last Updated: February 17, 2009

While felines are not very susceptible to eye problems, cat eye ailments tend to be longer in duration (chronic) and can last months, years, or even the animal's entire life. As with people, some cat eye problems occur with age; while others are hereditary and are present from birth. Still others occur with illness or injury.

In a healthy cat, the eyes are clear, bright, and clean, with no discharge or staining. The area around the eye is white and the third eyelid is not visible when the eye is wide open.

Common Feline Eye and Vision Conditions

Cataracts: Clouding of the lens of the eye.
Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the pink membrane that lines the white part (sclera) of the eye and the inner eyelid.
Corneal Ulcer: Painful open sore on the clear part of the eye (cornea).
Glaucoma: Excessive pressure in the interior of the eye.
Keratitis: Inflammation of the clear part of the eye (cornea).
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Slow degeneration of the retina, resulting in blindness.
Uveitis: Intraocular inflammation; swelling within the eyeball.
Watery Eyes: Constant weeping or discoloration of the fur around the eyes.

Signs and Symptoms of Cat Eye Ailments

* Red inner eyelids
* Enlarged pupil that doesn't respond to light
* Change in the color of the iris
* Unusual discharge or excessive watering of the eye
* Tear-stained fur around the eyes
* Reduction in production of tears
* Dried material on the surface or in the corner(s) of the eye
'* Third eyelid' visible across the eye
* Frequent squinting
* Cloudiness within the eyeball
* Dullness to the surface of the eye

Causes of Cat Eye Ailments

Untreated high blood pressure, in the system or in the eye, is the most common cause of cat eye disorders, including Glaucoma, Uveitis, and sudden blindness.

Trauma to the head or eye can also induce Corneal Ulcers, Keratitis, or Uveitis, because of damage to the tissue of the eye or inflammation caused by an injury in or near the eye.

Infectious diseases, such as Feline Herpesvirus (FHV), Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), and Feline Mycoplasma, are known causes of several feline eye problems (Conjunctivitis, Corneal Ulcers, Keratitis, Uveitis, and simple cat eye infection). Fungal, bacterial, and parasitic infections can also travel through the blood stream to affect cat eye health.

Watery Eyes are due to inadequate draining, chronic infections, injury, or plugging in the tear ducts. Progressive Retinal Atrophy is inherited.

Treatment and Aftercare of Cat Eye Ailments

Treatment of cat eye infection

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