Cats need healthy eyes to see the world around them and avoid danger. Unfortunately, eye problems are fairly common for our feline friends. Scratches, infections, and diseases like glaucoma can cause a wide range of unpleasant symptoms, and when left untreated, they could lead to blindness.
If you’re online searching for information about cat eye care, we’re glad you found us! We decided to share answers to a few of the questions we are frequently asked about this important subject. If you need additional information and would like to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian in Boca Raton, FL, call us at (561) 786-1100.
What's the most important thing when it comes to caring for a cat's eyes?
Look at your cat’s eyes regularly, and schedule an appointment with us right away if you notice any changes. Even if there doesn’t necessarily seem to be a “problem,” any change in your cat’s eyes could indicate a serious underlying issue. Because cat eye problems tend to progress quickly, seeking prompt veterinary care is crucial. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to a cat’s eyes.
How does good eye care impact the health and wellness of my cat?
Like humans, cats depend on their vision. While blind cats can — and often do — adapt well to their disability and enjoy a good quality of life, it’s important to do everything you can to care for your feline friend’s eyes. Good, healthy eyes let your cat see the world around them and watch for predators.
In addition to potentially causing blindness, eye problems are painful. Cats are susceptible to eye infections that, when left untreated, will cause severe discomfort. Maintaining your cat’s eye health is vital when it comes to ensuring their long-term physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
What are some signs and symptoms of eye issues in cats?
Eye issues cause a wide range of symptoms in cats.
The most common symptoms of eye issues in cats include:
- Squinting
- Discharge
- Keeping the eyes closed
- Swelling
- Redness
- Cloudiness
- Color change
- Pawing at the eyes or rubbing them against surfaces
- Sneezing or nasal discharge
If one of your cat’s eyes looks different than the other, this could also be a sign of eye problems. Be mindful of things like differently sized pupils, changes in color in only one eye, etc.
How soon should I bring my cat in to see a veterinarian for a problem with vision or other eye problems?
Contact us immediately if you have any reason to think your cat has an eye problem. Issues involving the eyes always require urgent veterinary attention. The longer you wait, the greater your cat’s risk of pain, blindness, and other complications.
How will a veterinarian diagnose a problem with my cat's eye?
We will start by taking a close look at your cat’s eye and using special instruments to examine the back of the eye, the cornea, and the lens. Depending on the type of problem, we may numb the eye and gently move the eyelid around, use stains to look for ulcers or scratches, assess tear production, or measure ocular pressure.
Depending on the nature and severity of your cat’s issue, we may refer you to a veterinary ophthalmologist. We try to handle as many eye problems in-house as possible, but sometimes, eye problems in cats require testing and treatment we aren’t equipped to provide.
What types of eye treatments do you commonly recommend for cats?
We typically recommend topical treatments, like eye drops or ointments, when treating eye problems in cats. While we understand that administering medication in your cat’s eye is no easy task, we can provide instructions so you can safely apply the medication your cat needs.
In some cases, clients bring their cats in for eye problems and learn that there is an underlying condition that requires systemic treatment. For example, hyperthyroidism can cause eye problems in cats. We will treat the issue to solve the eye problem in this type of situation. As veterinarians, we always recommend the treatment that ensures the best prognosis for your pet and will gladly address your questions and concerns.
Why is it important to avoid self-diagnosing eye issues in cats?
Attempting to self-diagnose an eye condition in your cat is dangerous. Even if you think you recognize a problem you’ve seen previously in another cat, yourself, or even your child, you could be incorrect. Eye issues can progress quickly when not treated properly. If you self-diagnose your cat’s eye problem rather than seek veterinary care, you run a very high risk of making the problem worse.
Why is early detection and diagnosis important?
Cats’ eyes are extremely delicate, and even minor problems can quickly evolve into much more serious issues. The sooner you seek veterinary care for your feline friend, the better the prognosis. Fast action on your part could save your cat from discomfort, pain, blindness, and even eye loss.
If you have any other questions and are near Boca Raton, please give us a call at (561) 786-1100. You can also email us at customerservice@cvcboca.com and we will get back to you as soon as we are able. Don't forget to follow us on social media: Facebook and Instagram.