Cats have beautiful, captivating eyes that are usually clear and bright, which is part of their charm. However, sometimes cats can develop eye problems, which are not uncommon. So, what about eye infections in cats, and how do you treat them? You might notice your cat scratching its eyes or rubbing its face against the sofa or carpet. This usually means there's something wrong. Anything from a simple cold to a more serious illness can cause eye discharge in your cat. Let’s explore some common causes of eye discharge and infections in cats, when you should take your cat to the vet, and what you can do at home to help your feline friend.
 
Causes of Eye Discharge
 
Healthy cats' eyes should be bright and shiny. But eye problems can make them look very different. A cat that is blinking excessively, squinting, or has red eyes likely has an eye infection. Since eye problems can have serious consequences, like surgery or blindness, it's important to treat them. Always consult your vet if you notice irritation or redness in your cat's eyes. Here are some common causes of eye discharge and infections in cats:
 
 
 
Upper Respiratory Infections: This is a frequent cause of eye discharge in cats and can include viruses like calicivirus, which is a contagious respiratory disease, or feline herpesvirus. Symptoms can be mild or severe and may include thick, pus-like discharge from the eyes.
 
 
 
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): This is an inflammation of the pink lining around your cat's eye. It can make one or both eyes red, swollen, and sensitive to light, along with clear, watery, or thick discharge. If conjunctivitis is accompanied by fever, diarrhoea, and breathing problems, it could indicate a serious disease like feline infectious peritonitis, although this is rare.
 
 
 
Corneal Disorders: The cornea, the dome-shaped surface covering the front of the eye, can become inflamed, injured, or ulcerated. This can lead to cloudiness, excessive blinking, and tearing.
 
 
 
Watery Eyes (Epiphora): Conditions like blocked tear ducts, excessive tear production, allergies, or viral conjunctivitis can cause your cat's eyes to water excessively, requiring treatment to relieve these uncomfortable symptoms.
 
 
 
Iritis: This is a serious and often painful inflammation of the inner structures of the eye, which can be caused by trauma, cancer, immune problems, or infections.
 
 
 
Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca): A chronic lack of tear production can lead to dry eyes, which may result in corneal inflammation, redness, and even blindness if untreated. Sticky yellow discharge may occur when the watery part of the tears is missing.
 
 
 
Other causes of eye discharge and infections in cats include allergies, foreign objects in the eye, or issues with the third eyelid.
 
Treatments for Eye Discharge and Infections in Cats
 
Since many conditions can cause eye discharge and infections in cats, it's crucial to talk to your vet before trying any treatments. Depending on the vet's findings, treatment may include:
 
 
 
Upper Respiratory Infections: Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may include eye medications, antibiotics, decongestants, or fluids.
 
 
 
Conjunctivitis: Pollen, dust, or other irritants can cause conjunctivitis, treatable with steroid ointment. If caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotic ointments may be used.
 
 
 
Corneal Disorders: Treatment depends on what’s affecting your cat’s cornea and may include cleaning the eyes, using antibiotic ointment or drops, drops that promote healing, or even surgery.
 
 
 
Blocked Tear Ducts: Under general anesthesia, the vet may flush out a blocked tear duct with water or saline. If there’s an infection, antibiotic eye ointment or drops may be needed.
 
 
 
Iritis: Treatment depends on the cause of the iritis, though it’s often hard to diagnose. It may include ointments or drops to control inflammation and pain.
 
 
 
Feline Viruses: Secondary bacterial infections, which can cause pneumonia and other serious issues, are common with viruses like calicivirus, so always contact your vet if you suspect your cat has this disease. Treatment may involve managing symptoms, using antibiotics for secondary infections, and providing supportive care.
 
 
 
Dry Eye: Various issues, from immune diseases to herpesvirus, can cause dry eye. Treatment may include eye drops, ointments, immune-suppressing medications, antibiotics, or artificial tears.
 
 
 
When to See the Vet
 
Your cat's eyes are as sensitive as they are beautiful. Small problems can quickly become serious. If your cat's eye discharge doesn’t clear up within 24 hours, or if your cat is in obvious pain, contact your vet immediately. Do not use leftover medications from a previous eye issue, as different eye problems require different treatments, and using the wrong medication could cause serious harm.
 
Home Care: Tips to Keep Your Cat's Eyes Healthy
 
You can help prevent eye problems in your cat by keeping up with annual vaccinations, avoiding overcrowding with other cats, and regularly checking your cat's eyes for redness, cloudiness, discharge, or sensitivity to light.
 
To safely remove eye discharge and make your cat more comfortable while waiting for a vet appointment, follow these simple tips:
 
 
Dip a cotton ball in water.
 
Wipe the eye discharge, always moving from the corner of the eye outward. Use a fresh cotton ball for each eye.
 
Avoid using any over-the-counter drops or washes unless prescribed by your vet.
 
 
Since proper treatment is crucial to your cat's health and well-being, always consult your vet to ensure your cat receives the appropriate care.