Top Things to Know About Cat Eye Infections
At Alum Rock Animal Hospital in San Jose, we take pet eye care very seriously. We provide treatment for eye infections and have a few tips to keep your feline friend’s eyes healthy.
The Symptoms of Feline Eye Infections
The signs of cat eye infections are often similar to eye infections in humans. Some of these include:
- Redness in the whites of the eye
- Discharge (clear, yellow, or green)
- Excessive blinking
If the eye issue is caused by an infection of the upper respiratory system, your cat may sneeze or have nasal discharge. Of course, cats and humans aren't the same. Your cat has a third eyelid, which might not close properly or could be more closed than usual if your pet has developed an eye infection.
Diagnosing Cat Eye Infections
Some eye issues can lead to permanent damage or even blindness in cats. It is important to see a veterinarian rather than waiting for the issue to clear up on its own. Even if the infection does resolve on its own, it can be incredibly painful for your cat in the meantime.
Our veterinarian will test your cat's blood and discharge to look for bacteria as well as perform a physical examination to diagnose the cause of your cat's symptoms. Eye infections can be caused by upper respiratory infections, conjunctivitis (pink eye), corneal irritation, blocked tear ducts, allergies, trauma, cancer, foreign objects in the eyelid, immune system disorders, and feline infectious peritonitis. It is crucial to get a diagnosis and the proper treatment to minimize long-term issues.
Treatment
Depending on the cause of your cat's eye infection, our veterinarian may prescribe eye drops, ointments, antibiotics, decongestants, steroids, immunosuppressant medication, anti-inflammatories, pain killers, or fluids. Keeping the eye clean can also help resolve the issue. However, sometimes surgery may be the best option. If the infection is contagious, you will be instructed to keep your cat away from other pets.
Get Help With Cat Eye Infections in San Jose, CA
If you suspect your cat has an eye infection, contact Alum Rock Animal Hospital to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian. Call our team today at (408) 258-2735 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.