There are several causes of cat eye infections including viral, bacterial, and fungal infectious agents. Eye problems in cats are not as common as in dogs, but are still frequently encountered in veterinary clinics. Cat eye infections have specific characteristics that allow them to be recognized and treated. Additionally, steps can be taken by owners to reduce the likelihood of feline eye infection recurrence.
Causes and Symptoms of Cat Eye Infections
Eye infections in cats can be caused by viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Viral eye infection in cats caused by the Feline herpesvirus-1 is the most common cause of feline conjunctivitis, or redness and inflammation of the membrane that coats the eye. Feline herpesvirus-1 is very common in cats. It is estimated that 90% of cats harbor this virus which can cause recurrent viral eye infections during periods of stress. This type of feline eye infection exhibits several symptoms, including:
- Squinting of one eye
- Inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva
- Discharge from the infected eye
Chlamydiosis is a bacterial eye infection that is another common cause of conjunctivitis in cats. It is difficult to differentiate between feline eye infections caused by viruses and bacteria because they cause identical symptoms, specifically eye discharge, prolonged eye closure, and redness.
Fungal eye infections in cats are relatively rare, and occur most often in felines with compromised immune systems. When they do occur, fungal infections in cats are usually caused by cryptococcosis. This fungal agent is typically contracted from the cat's outdoor environment. Symptoms of fungal eye infection in cats include:
- Peripheral blindness
- Dilated eyes
- Pupils do not respond to light
- Inflamed retina
- Dramatic behavioral changes
Treatment for Feline Eye Infections
Viral eye infections in cats are typically treated with topical antibiotic ointment which helps to prevent secondary bacterial infection. Topical antiviral treatments are also available to treat this common feline eye disease. However, antivirals are expensive and are usually only prescribed for this type of feline eye infection when the cornea is involved.
Oral treatments such as interferon and lysine can help shorten the course of infection and/or prevent future infections. Cat eye infections that are caused by bacteria are also treated with topical antibacterial ointments twice daily for 10-14 days. Treatment for fungal eye infection in cats includes the use of oral anti-fungal medications like fluconazole, triazole, voriconazole or itraconazole.
Preventing Future Eye Problems in Cats
Early immunization and timely booster shots are the best way to prevent feline eye infection. This reduces the chance of a cat developing a lifelong infection that will lead to frequent eye problems. If a cat commonly has eye discharge then gentle cleaning of mucus around the eye with a damp cloth once a day can help prevent buildup and subsequent infection. Additionally, a cat's face should always be protected from chemicals, and hair should be kept short around the eyes to prevent irritation.
A “wait and see” policy is never a good idea when it comes to eye problems in cats since these issues can progress very rapidly. Only viral infection can clear up without the help of a veterinarian, but it is difficult to differentiate between viral and bacterial infection in a cat’s eye. Additionally, corneal injuries can cause symptoms that are similar to infection but require a different treatment. A veterinarian must use special techniques to determine if the cornea is damaged. Cat owners should recognize symptoms of eye infection and take action by seeking evaluation and prescription treatment from a veterinarian.
References
The Cat Health Guide - Cat Eye Infection
 |
