If a cat has cloudy eyes or an unusual discharge from the eyes, the cat owner may be concerned about the cat eye health, and rightly so. Some changes in the cat eyes are normal signs of cat aging. Other changes can be cause for alarm and signify that a cat eye disease may be present.
As a cat ages, the cat becomes more susceptible to cataracts. Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in cats. Some cat cataracts are minor and do not disrupt the cat’s vision. Some cataracts are centrally located in the eye and therefore block the cat’s field of vision.
If the cat owner notices that the cat’s eyes are becoming cloudy or have white or blue discolorations, the cat owner should have the cat examined by a veterinarian. Cataracts in cats that are interfering with the cat’s vision may be surgically removed. Lenticular sclerosis is similar in appearance to a cataract, but is a normal sign of aging that does not interfere with the cat’s vision.
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of tissue that covers the eye. It can also be an infection of the underside of the eyelid. Symptoms of cat conjunctivitis include squinting, discharge from one or both eyes, and itchiness that can cause the cat to paw at its eyes.
Conjunctivitis in cats has many possible causes, but is generally due to a small foreign particle such as dust, an abrasion or injury to the eye, allergies, or as a symptom of an upper respiratory infection. Physical abnormalities of the eyelid or eyelashes can cause irritation that can lead to conjunctivitis. If a physical abnormality is present, such as an eyelash that is growing against the eye instead of outward, the abnormality usually has to be surgically repaired to stop the conjunctivitis and prevent its recurrence due to the defect.
Cat corneal injuries are scratches or abrasions of the eye due to an eye injury. The symptoms of corneal injuries include pain, sensitivity to light, discharge from the eye, and eye spasms. Injuries to the eyes need to be checked by the veterinarian so that the proper medication or treatment can be given.
Cat diseases and symptoms of eye conditions can be more common is some cat breeds. If a cat owner has questions about the cat’s eye health, the cat owner should consult a veterinarian. Most eye diseases are treatable if veterinary care is obtained when the symptoms arise.
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February 1st, 2009 at 6:08 pm
If the condition above turns out to be cataracts, cineraria homeopathic eyedrops can be very effective in treating cataracts in both cats and dogs. These eyedrops have been used effectively for over 30 years, and used by holistic veterinarians all over the Country. These eyedrops also can work well for humans, and are very safe.
For more related information on nutrition and vision, go to Natural Eye Care
February 8th, 2009 at 8:04 am
my cat has a runny discharge from one eye-he seems fine other wise and shows no other problems-this is a recent happening-the discharge is reddish brown-can be clear-but usualy is reddish brown and thick like syrup…what is this?
October 23rd, 2009 at 8:14 pm
A neighbor’s neutered female cat (age over 10 years) has had a problem in one eye for the past year or so.
The eye swells very much and looks opague. The swelling goes down to almost normal periodically but the eye remains opague. There is no outside drainage. The cat does not appear to be in any pain. It eats and acts normal. What could be the cause.