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The eyes of a cat are unique and compelling. As nocturnal animals cats are able to see extremely well in low light conditions and posses a greater peripheral vision than most other animals. Due to the nature of the cat and its' biological history as a predator the cat relies heavily on vision for navigation throughout the day.

Cat eye care is extremely important to a cat's health, well being and overall quality of life. If left untreated a feline eye problem or trauma can become painfully infected and result in permanent damage to the eye.

Outdoor cats, aging cats, cats with weakened immune systems and cats that have not received regular vaccinations are most susceptible to eye trauma and infection. Cat eye problems and vision impairments can occur at any age, however, the older a cat gets the more susceptible they can become to various health issues. Paying close attention to your cat's physical appearance and behavior as well as visiting a veterinarian regularly can help catch cat eye infections and vision problems early. With prompt and proper treatment a cat eye infection can quickly clear up leaving little or no damage to the cat's vision.

Common cat eye ailments include viruses such as the feline herpes virus, feline calicivirus, Chlamydia and conjunctivitis. These viruses are usually very contagious and can eventually become a reoccurring medical issue for many felines. If you have several cats and suspect one of them has a cat eye ailment it is important to move the infected cat into a separate room. Secluding an infected cat until it can receive medical attention can help prevent the spread of infection. Other cat eye problems include corneal ulcers, cataracts and glaucoma which can result in numerous cat vision problems including partial or complete blindness.

Signs and symptoms indicating a cat eye health problem or eye infection include:

*A runny or thick discharge from the eye

*A puffy or swollen eye

*Excessive blinking

*Cloudy appearance or whitish film over the eyeball

*One pupil is bigger or smaller than the other

*Inner eyelid or nictitating membrane is partially closed

*Pawing or scratching motions at the eye

*Lethargy or exhaustion due to pain

*Avoidance of light

If you suspect your cat has come into contact with an eye infection or has experienced an eye trauma it is important to seek immediate veterinary care. Cat eye care treatment can include oral antibiotics, surgery or eye drops as well as creams and gels that can be placed on or around the eye. Proper cat eye health can begin at a very early age with a set of routine vaccinations. Vaccinations and booster shots are powerful preventative measures that will protect your cat from many common and contagious eye infections.

Learn more about this author, Krista Tannahill.
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