Cat eye infections are fairly common and can range from mild irritation to more serious problems that need to be treated right away. Changes in a cat's eyes can sometimes be one of the first signs that something is wrong because cats can hide their pain.
It's important to take your cat to the vet if you notice redness, discharge, or squinting. A licensed professional is the only one who can find the root cause and suggest the best course of action.
Common Causes of Eye Infections in Cats
Conjunctivitis — inflammation of the thin membrane that lines the eyelids and covers the white part of the eye — is a common cause of eye infections.
There are many things that can cause eye infections, such as:
- Viral infections, like feline herpesvirus (FHV-1)
- Infections caused by bacteria
- Upper respiratory infections
- Environmental irritants or allergies
- Foreign objects or small injuries to the eye
- Blocked tear ducts
Sometimes, eye infections can happen because of another underlying health problem. A full exam by a veterinarian helps identify the cause.
Things to Look Out For
The symptoms of an eye infection can vary depending on what caused it. Some common signs include:
- Redness of the eyes or eyelids
- Watery, cloudy, yellow, or green discharge
- Excessive blinking or squinting
- Pawing at the eye
- Swelling around the eye
- Sensitivity to light
If you notice sudden vision changes, significant swelling, or signs of severe discomfort, you should see a veterinarian right away.
Even mild symptoms that last more than a day or two should be evaluated, because eye problems can worsen if they are not treated.
How Veterinarians Diagnose Eye Conditions
During an exam, your veterinarian may:
- Perform a physical exam
- Check for corneal ulcers using special dyes
- Evaluate tear production
- Collect samples to test for infection
These tests help determine whether the problem is viral, bacterial, inflammatory, or caused by something else. Getting the correct diagnosis is important before starting treatment.
Treatment Options
The cause of the infection will determine how it is treated. Your veterinarian might suggest:
- Topical antibiotic eye drops or ointments for bacterial infections
- Antiviral medications for viral infections
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
- Supportive care, such as gently cleaning discharge
In some cases, oral medications may also be prescribed.
Even if symptoms seem to improve, it's important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions exactly and complete the full course of medication as directed.
Do not give your cat human eye drops unless your veterinarian specifically instructs you to do so, as some products can be harmful to cats.
Can Eye Infections Be Prevented?
Not all eye infections can be prevented, but there are steps that may help reduce risk:
- Keeping vaccinations up to date
- Reducing stress in multi-cat households
- Maintaining clean living spaces
- Addressing respiratory infections promptly
Regular veterinary checkups also help identify potential health problems early.
When to Call Your Veterinarian
Contact your veterinarian if you notice:
- Ongoing discharge
- Cloudiness in the eye
- Swelling or a visible injury
- Changes in behavior related to vision
- Symptoms that do not improve within 24–48 hours
It’s important to seek an eye examination promptly, as eye problems can progress quickly.
There are many possible causes of eye infections in cats, ranging from mild irritation to more serious viral or bacterial conditions. Many cases improve with proper diagnosis and veterinary care.
Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your cat’s treatment, since each cat’s health history and symptoms are unique. If you suspect your cat may have an eye infection, schedule a professional evaluation to ensure appropriate and safe care.