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Cat Eye Infection Find information about cat eye infections. Learn about the normal cat eye and the different eye infections that hamper feline vision. Signs of a cat eye infection include squinting, pawing or rubbing of the eye, redness of the tissue lining the eyelid, excessive tearing, unequal pupil size, a visible third eyelid (a white membrane that fans out from the inner corner of the eye), cloudiness or color changes in the eye, and blindness. Normal Cat Eye One of the conditions that are common to a cat eye infection is a squinting or red eye which can be caused by a corneal ulcer. Corneal ulcers are irregularities on the surface of the eye. A normal cornea is smooth. Ulcerated corneas are quite uncomfortable to the animal, so you may see a decreased activity in your pet. Another condition that causes a cat eye infection is foxtails. In the spring time when the weeds are growing cats often get foxtails in their eyes. The foxtail can get stuck under the eyelids which can cause a corneal ulcer. An antibiotic drop or ointment is usually prescribed to treat a corneal ulcer.
Another common cat eye infection is conjunctivitis which is inflammation of the tissue lining the eyelid and covering part of the eye ball. It is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection spread by direct contact with an infected cat or by contact with contaminated surfaces. Vaccines will not protect a cat from infection, but a vaccinated cat will get less sick if they do become infected.
Excessive tearing and tear overflow is still another condition that can cause a cat eye infection. This condition can result from eye inflammation of the surrounding tissue. There are many causes for this including irritation, injury, or infection. Some time what appears to be a cat eye infection is excessive tearing, not over production of tears but tear overflow. Felines with very short muzzles such as Persians, Exotic Shorthairs, and Himalayans, tears may not exit the eye as they should but drain over the edges of the lid. The fur below the eye becomes continually wet and the underlying skin can become irritated if not kept clean and dry.
Cat eye infection called “cherry eye” is a condition in which the gland at the base of the third eyelid protrudes and can become quite irritated. It is not a common cat eye disorder but occurs frequently in Burmese and Persian cats. Burmese are more prone to developing cherry eye than most other breeds. This cat eye infection must be corrected surgically. Cat eye infection is accompanied by signs and symptoms. Pain is one of the most serious and should receive prompt veterinary attention. Eye discharge helps define the cause. Clear discharge with out redness and pain indicates a problem with the tear drainage system. Any discharge accompanied by pain should alert to the possibility of cornea or inner eye problems. A thick, sticky mucus discharge with a red inflamed eye suggests conjunctivitis (Red Eye). For great pet items go to the Kitty Cat Store |
