Cat Conjunctivitis – Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is the most common cause of
red eyes
in cats. Usually the result of a bacterial infection, conjunctivitis causes symptoms including
excessive winking
, clear or dark fluid discharge, cat’s eyes watering, and swollen eye tissue.
What should I do if my cats eye is red?
Eye drops or
topical ointments
applied to the eyes to reduce inflammation and heal the eyes Surgical removal of any foreign bodies debride corneal ulcers or repair a prolapsed third eyelid gland. Oral antibiotics or anti-viral medications may be prescribed if an infection is present.
Will my cats red eye go away on its own?
In some cases, cat eye infections will resolve on their own , but otherwise a vet will likely prescribe either eye drops or topical ointment. In more severe cases, oral antibiotics may be needed to address an underlying condition that’s causing the eye infection.
What does a kitten eye infection look like?
Symptoms of Eye Infections in
kittens discharge
(clear or pus like) Eyelids sticking to the front of eyes. Swollen eyelids that bulge outward. Sores on the surface of the eye.
How do I know if my kitten has an eye infection?
If your cat is suffering from an eye infection symptoms may include: redness around the eye, watery eyes, discharge, and possibly swelling You may also notice that your cat is displaying other symptoms such as nasal congestion and sneezing or may be rubbing at the eye.
Can I treat my cats eye infection at home?
For the most effective treatment, gently flush the affected eye 3 to 4 times a day Because our eye wash is non-toxic and free of alcohol, steroids, and antibiotics, there’s no rinsing necessary.
What do cat Eye infections look like?
Generally, though, a cat with an eye infection may have any of the following: Redness in the white of the eye Discharge that can be either watery or thick or clear, yellow, or green in color. Excessive blinking, winking, or keeping an eye closed.
What does pink eye look like in cats?
Symptoms of cat conjunctivitis are as follows: Cloudy white, yellow, or green discharge Pink or reddened eye rims. Sensitivity to sunlight. Discomfort/squinting.
How long does a kitten eye infection last?
Most bacterial and
viral infections
will resolve within five to fourteen days In cases that are not improving or where are other pets at risk of infection, further testing will be performed to reach a definitive diagnosis.
Can kittens go blind from conjunctivitis?
Young kittens with herpes viral conjunctivitis may have such severe infection that their eyes become sealed shut with discharged matter. In this situation, the eyes must be opened or permanent damage, even blindness, may occur.
Is kitten conjunctivitis contagious to humans?
Is cat conjunctivitis contagious to humans? The chances are very low for the viruses and bacteria responsible for cat conjunctivitis to be transmitted to humans Regardless, you should still be mindful of some basic rules of hygiene such as washing your hands when petting your poorly cat until they recover.
Do kittens get eye infections?
Cats and kittens can get an eye infection known as conjunctivitis In people, this condition is commonly known as pink eye and has a variety of causes. Even though the primary infections are often viral, cats sometimes get secondary bacterial infections that also require treatment.
How long does cat conjunctivitis last?
Many simple cases of conjunctivitis resolve in seven to 14 days with veterinary-prescribed treatment, but chronic cases require prolonged treatment ( weeks to months ). Cat pink eye will not clear up on its own.
Is it normal for the whites of cats eyes to be red?
Episcleritis is a medical condition of the eye, where the episclera (white part of the eye) appears red, but does not have any related discharge or excess tearing This condition is typically benign and easy to treat using topical ointments or eye drops.
How serious is cat conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis in cats is a common feline eye disorder and can be very uncomfortable and painful for your feline friend. In severe cases, conjunctivitis in cats can lead to more serious eye problems, including blindness.
Can I use eye drops on my kitten?
“ Do not use any over-the-counter eye drops for your cat, unless it’s artificial tears ,” Jones says. “Anything medicated can have a negative effect.” Holt adds that eye drops for dogs should also be avoided. “Some pet owners think that dogs’ eyes are similar to cats’ eyes, but that is really not the case.
What’s wrong with my kitten’s eye?
Feline Conjunctivitis In cats, conjunctivitis can be caused by bacteria (Chlamydia or Mycoplasma) or a virus (feline herpesvirus). Both adult cats and kittens can develop conjunctivitis. If the conjunctivitis is caused by bacteria, then it will usually get better with antibiotic treatment.
Is conjunctivitis common in kittens?
Conjunctivitis is a very common eye condition in cats. It’s most common in young kittens , but it can affect any cat at any age. When conjunctivitis occurs, it’s important to seek treatment to help your kitty feel better and avoid complications, and to prevent spread of the condition to other cats in the home.
Does pink eye go away on its own?
The infection will usually clear up in 7 to 14 days without treatment and without any long-term consequences However, in some cases, viral conjunctivitis can take 2 to 3 weeks or more to clear up. A doctor can prescribe antiviral medication to treat more serious forms of conjunctivitis.
Is it normal for the whites of cats eyes to be red?
Episcleritis is a medical condition of the eye, where the episclera (white part of the eye) appears red, but does not have any related discharge or excess tearing This condition is typically benign and easy to treat using topical ointments or eye drops.
What do cat eye infections look like?
Generally, though, a cat with an eye infection may have any of the following: Redness in the white of the eye Discharge that can be either watery or thick or clear, yellow, or green in color. Excessive blinking, winking, or keeping an eye closed.
References
https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/health-care/cat-conditions/cat-eye-infection
https://www.vetwest.com.au/pet-library/conjunctivitis-in-cats
https://www.greensboro.carolinavet.com/site/greensboro-specialty-veterinary-blog/2021/03/30/kitten-eye-infection
https://www.pumpkin.care/blog/cat-eye-infections/