Skip to main content

Why Is Your Cat Rubbing Its Eyes? Understanding Feline Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is when the conjunctiva—the clear tissue lining the inside of your cat's eyelids and covering the white part of the eye—gets inflamed. Normally, the conjunctiva is moist and shiny, with tiny blood vessels visible through the translucent tissue. It acts as a barrier, trapping tiny particles in the air and helping to keep viruses and bacteria from getting into your cat's eyes.

Conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye issues in cats. It could be the only problem with your cat’s eyes or it might be related to another condition or abnormality.

 
Conjunctivitis in Cats

Causes of Conjunctivitis in Cats

Conjunctivitis in cats can have many different causes, including:

  1. Viral infections like herpesvirus or calicivirus
  2. Eye infections caused by chlamydia
  3. Bacterial infections
  4. Problems with the cornea
  5. Issues with tear production
  6. Infections or abnormalities of the eyelids
  7. Contact with foreign substances like plant material, fibers, sand, or chemicals
  8. Environmental irritants
  9. Trauma to the eye
  10. Idiopathic causes, meaning there's no clear reason for the problem

 
Cat's Eyes Red and Swollen

Symptoms of Conjunctivitis in Cats

Common signs of conjunctivitis in cats include:

  1. Redness in the eye
  2. Unusual eye discharge
  3. Swelling of the conjunctiva
  4. Squinting or excessive blinking
  5. Rubbing or pawing at the eyes

 

Diagnosing Conjunctivitis in Cats

To diagnose conjunctivitis, your vet will start by doing a thorough examination. They might perform these tests to find out what's going on:

  1. Fluorescein staining to check for scratches or ulcers on the cornea
  2. Schirmer tear test to measure if your cat is making enough tears
  3. Detailed inspection of the conjunctiva, outer eyelids, and third eyelid

Depending on these results, your vet might suggest further tests, such as:

  1. Bacterial cultures
  2. Tests for viruses
  3. Tonometry, which checks for glaucoma
  4. Conjunctival scraping to analyze cells from the conjunctiva
  5. Conjunctival biopsy (rarely done)
  6. Blood tests if the cat is showing other signs of illness

 
Diagnosing Conjunctivitis in Cats

Treating Conjunctivitis in Cats

The treatment for conjunctivitis focuses on addressing the symptoms and the underlying cause, if known. It can include:

  1. Rinsing the eyes thoroughly to remove irritants
  2. Removing any foreign objects
  3. Using medication to stimulate tear production if needed
  4. Treating eyelid infections or abnormalities with medication or surgery
  5. Antibiotic ointments to treat secondary bacterial infections, which are common with eye issues in cats
  6. Anti-inflammatory eye medications to reduce swelling and discomfort

 

At-Home Care and Prevention

Once treatment begins, you should check your cat's eyes regularly to monitor improvement. Most cases of conjunctivitis start to get better within 24 to 48 hours after treatment. If you don't see any improvement, make sure to contact your vet right away.

Unfortunately, many causes of conjunctivitis in cats can't be prevented, but regular vet check-ups and early treatment can usually solve the problem and keep your cat's eyes healthy.

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

People Like These Posts About Pets

How much exercise does my pet require daily?

Ensuring your pet gets enough exercise is crucial for their physical health, mental well-being, and overall happiness. However, determining the right amount of exercise for your furry friend can be a bit of a puzzle. From energetic dogs to playful cats, each pet has unique needs when it comes to staying active. In this article, we'll delve into the question: How much exercise does my pet require daily? Understanding Your Pet's Needs The amount of exercise your pet needs depends on various factors, including their breed, age, size, health condition, and individual personality. For instance, high-energy breeds like Border Collies and Siberian Huskies require more exercise compared to smaller, less active breeds like Pugs or Bulldogs. Similarly, younger pets generally have higher energy levels and need more activity to burn off excess energy compared to older pets. Dog Exercise Requirements Dogs are one of the most active pets, and regular exercise is vital for their physical and ...
Post a Comment
Read more

How can I tell if my pet is overweight, and what can I do to help them maintain a healthy weight?

Tackling Pet Pudge: A Guide to Keeping Your Furry Friend Fit and Fab Hey pet parents! We all want our fluffy pals to thrive, and that means looking out for their health. But with pet obesity rates on the rise, it's time to get serious about keeping our pets in tip-top shape. So, let's dive into how to spot if your pet's packing on a few extra pounds and what you can do to help them slim down and stay healthy. Spotting Chubby Checkers Spotting if your pet's tipping the scales can be a bit of a challenge, especially if those ounces have been sneaking up on you. But fear not! Here are a few telltale signs to keep an eye out for: 1. Rib Check Give your pet's ribs a gentle pat-down. Ideally, you should be able to feel them beneath a light layer of fluff. If they're buried under a cushion of fat, it's time to take action. 2. Shape Shift Take a bird's-eye view of your buddy. They should have a defined waistline behind their ribs. If they're looking more lik...
Post a Comment
Read more

Do vets offer telemedicine or virtual consultations?

Navigating Veterinary Care: Real Stories of Telemedicine and Virtual Consultations In an era marked by technological advancements, the field of veterinary medicine has embraced innovation to provide pet owners with convenient and accessible healthcare solutions. Telemedicine and virtual consultations have emerged as invaluable tools, allowing pet owners to connect with veterinarians remotely for expert advice and guidance. In this article, we'll delve into real stories of pet owners who have experienced the benefits of telemedicine and virtual consultations offered by veterinarians. Sarah's Relief Amidst Emergency Sarah's beloved cat, Luna, suddenly fell ill in the middle of the night, leaving Sarah frantic and unsure of what to do. With traditional veterinary clinics closed and transportation challenges, Sarah turned to a local vet clinic offering telemedicine services. Through a virtual consultation, the veterinarian assessed Luna's symptoms, provided immediate guidan...
Post a Comment
Read more

Do vets offer grooming or boarding services?

Exploring the Intersection of Veterinary Care: Statistics on Grooming and Boarding Services Offered by Vets When it comes to caring for our beloved pets, the services provided by veterinarians extend beyond medical treatment. Many pet owners rely on veterinary clinics for grooming and boarding services in addition to routine healthcare. But just how common are these additional services among veterinary practices? Let's explore the statistics on grooming and boarding services offered by vets to gain insight into the evolving landscape of pet care. Grooming Services According to a survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association (APPA), approximately 56% of veterinary clinics in the United States offer grooming services as part of their practice offerings. This statistic highlights the significant role that grooming plays in the overall care and maintenance of pets. From basic grooming tasks such as bathing and nail trimming to more specialized services like haircuts and den...
Post a Comment
Read more

Are You Deciphering Your Dog's Body Language Correctly?

Being a pet parent to a dog can be both rewarding and challenging, especially for those who are new to the world of canine companionship. One of the trickiest parts is deciphering your furry friend's body language and understanding what they're trying to communicate. Dogs are emotional creatures, and they have a rich vocabulary of expressions that they use to let us know how they feel. Let's delve into eight common dog behaviors and decode their meanings so you can become the ultimate dog whisperer!   1. Trust and Affection If your dog follows you around like a shadow, whether you're heading to the bathroom, kitchen, or bedroom, it's a sign that they want to stay close and enjoy your time together. This behavior shows how much they love and trust you. Another telltale sign of trust is when your dog rolls over and exposes their belly to you. It's not just a cute pose; it's an invitation to play or pet them, showing they're comfortable and se...
Post a Comment
Read more

How can I locate a reputable vet near me for routine check-ups?

Your Guide to Finding a Trustworthy Vet Near You for Routine Check-ups As a responsible pet owner, ensuring your furry friend receives regular veterinary care is essential for their health and well-being. Routine check-ups not only help prevent potential health issues but also allow veterinarians to detect and address any concerns early on. However, finding a reputable vet nearby can sometimes feel like a daunting task. Don't worry; we've got you covered! Here's your comprehensive guide to locating a trustworthy veterinarian near you for routine check-ups. Ask for Recommendations Reach out to fellow pet owners in your community for recommendations. Friends, family members, neighbors, or colleagues who are pet owners can provide valuable insights into their experiences with local veterinarians. Pay attention to recommendations from individuals whose opinions you trust and whose pets receive regular veterinary care. Check Online Reviews In today's digital age, online revi...
Post a Comment
Read more

Getting to Know Shorthair Cats: Types, Characteristics, History and More

Getting to Know Shorthair Cats: Types, Characteristics, History and More Today, more and more folks, especially young urbanites hustling in the city, often feel a bit lonely after a long day at work. Urban life has its perks, but it can also leave us feeling a bit disconnected. Taking advantage of this gap, pet cats are capturing more attention. For busy professionals, having a cat at home can bring joy without the hassle of daily walks. So, let's explore a few breeds of shorthair cats for your consideration. The British Shorthair cat is a favorite among cat lovers. With its round face, muscular build, and velvety short coat, it exudes an air of pride and dignity. Their round, big eyes come in various colors like gold and orange, giving them a regal look. Coupled with their independent personalities, they have cat enthusiasts swooning. Despite their coat coming in various colors like black, cream, and tabby, the most famous and popular in cat shows is the blue British Shorthair. In...
Post a Comment
Read more

What should I do if I can't find any vets near me?

When Veterinary Care Seems Out of Reach: What to Do When You Can't Find Vets Nearby As pet owners, ensuring the health and well-being of our furry companions is a top priority. However, what happens when you find yourself in a situation where veterinary care seems out of reach because you can't find any vets nearby? While it may initially feel daunting, there are several steps you can take to navigate this challenge and ensure your pet receives the care they need. Let's explore some proactive strategies to address this dilemma and find solutions even when veterinary services seem elusive. 1. Expand Your Search Radius If you're struggling to find veterinarians in your immediate vicinity, consider expanding your search radius. Veterinary clinics may be located in neighboring towns or cities within a reasonable driving distance. Utilize online maps and directories to identify nearby veterinary clinics and contact them to inquire about their services and availability. 2. Re...
Post a Comment
Read more

From Fuzzy Friends to Creepy Crawlers: Exploring the Wild World of Pets!

From Fuzzy Friends to Creepy Crawlers: Exploring the Wild World of Pets! What's pet? Pets are those awesome creatures we keep around for companionship and joy, not just to fill our pockets. Traditionally, when we think of pets, it's usually cuddly mammals or chirpy birds that come to mind, you know, the ones we snuggle up to or chirp back at. But in real life, our furry, scaly, or even leafy buddies come in all shapes and sizes, from fish to reptiles, amphibians, insects, and yes, even plants. They're here to keep us company, de-stress us, and just make life a whole lot brighter. Way back, like way, way back, our ancestors were already domesticating dogs, about 15,000 years ago! Cats joined the squad around 3,500 years ago, and goldfish, those beauties originally from China, have been swimming around in our homes for at least 1,500 years. Fast forward to today, with our lives getting cushier and cushier, we're not just sticking to the classics like dogs, cats, birds, ra...
Post a Comment
Read more