Feline Eye Infections

Eye infections are a rather common problem in cats, and can be a great source of irritation and distress for them.



Most eye infections are not serious, and can be gotten rid of in a short time, sometimes even without medical treatment. However, the problem is that an eye infection in a cat can be due to numerous causes. Eye infections can be bacterial, fungal, or viral, and even within each of these categories there are several different types of eye infections.



It is important to identify an eye infection properly, so that it can be treated promptly and effectively. In some cases, failure to properly identify and treat eye infection can lead to more severe symptoms, and it may later become much more difficult to treat the problem. Some infections can lead to peripheral or even total blindness.

Probably the most common eye infection in cats is the result of a virus known as the feline herpevirus 1. Typical cat eye infection symptoms include redness and discharge from the eyes. In addition, some infections can cause the eyelid to stick to the eyeball, or they may cause ulcers or lesions to develop on the cornea. Some eye infections may only be symptoms of a larger, more systemic infection. In such cases, the cat may also suffer from diarrhea and vomiting, and it may develop a fever. As always, in cases where diarrhea, vomiting, and fever are present, there is a high risk of dehydration. It is therefore essential that your cat gets immediate medical attention if it starts to display such symptoms. Sometimes the infection may act more slowly, and there may be unexplained weight loss, poor appetite, and lethargy. Some eye infections may also be accompanied by skin infections and oral infections affecting the teeth and gums.

Cat Eye Infection Treatments

Cat infected eye remedies vary depending upon the cause of the infection. For a mild, localized infection, medicated eye drops may be the primary mode of treatment, and this may be accompanied by other oral medications if necessary. More aggressive infections involving the whole body may require more aggressive treatment, and only your veterinarian will be able to guide you here. In some cases, home remedies or natural cures could also be used, but it is important to consult your vet first. Many such remedies are only symptomatic treatments, and could leave the underlying infection to silently worsen. Some could even irritate the eyes further, causing unnecessary damage.