Eye inflammation in cats

If your cat’s eyes are watery or the corners look red and irritated, it might be a sign of inflammation. Eye problems in cats are pretty common, but the good news is they’re usually treatable if caught early.

Let’s look at the common symptoms and how to help your cat feel better.

Why do cats develop eye inflammation?  

Eye inflammation in cats can happen for lots of reasons, like allergies, infections (often viral), or something stuck in their eye. It might affect one eye or both, but infections often start in one eye and spread when your cat rubs or washes their face. If you think your cat has eye inflammation, it’s best to get them checked by a vet to find out what’s wrong and how to treat it.

Cat conjunctivitis 

Eye inflammation is often referred to as conjunctivitis, and it’s similar to the condition in humans. Conjunctivitis involves inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin layer of tissue covering the eye. It can result in redness, discharge, and discomfort for your cat.

Symptoms in cats with eye inflammation

Symptoms can depend on the cause, but common signs include:

• Watery eyes
• Red/pink mucous membranes (the corner part of the eye nearest the centre of the face)
• Difficulty opening one or both eyes
• Itching in or around the eyes
• Squinting

Diagnosis and treatment of eye inflammation in cats  

Getting the right diagnosis is key when treating eye inflammation in cats, as it could be a sign of another disease or infection. Your vet might take samples from your cat’s eye to check for issues like chlamydia, herpes, or mycoplasma—bacteria that can cause problems if your cat’s immune system is weak. They might also do tests like corneal staining or blood work to figure out the exact cause and the best treatment.  

For mild cases, daily eye cleaning and tear substitutes usually help. Eye drops can work well for dry eyes or small scratches on the eye. If there’s something stuck in your cat’s eye, don’t try to remove it yourself—get your vet to handle it safely. For injuries, quick treatment is super important to ease pain and prevent lasting damage.

If your cat has a corneal ulcer, it’s crucial to seek prompt veterinary care. For more information, check out our guide on corneal ulcers in cats.

Cat conjunctivitis treatment

If your cat is diagnosed with conjunctivitis, treatment may vary depending on the underlying cause. For bacterial infections, antibiotics, often in the form of cat eye drops for conjunctivitis, are commonly prescribed. If a viral infection, such as herpes, is the cause, your vet may recommend antiviral medications or a combination of treatments to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. 

In cases where allergies are the cause, antihistamines or steroid eye drops may help. Treatment for conjunctivitis can often be covered by cat insurance, so it’s worth checking your policy to see if you’re eligible for coverage on related medications or visits.

Cat conjunctivitis home remedy 

While minor irritations may resolve with gentle cleaning and care, most cases of conjunctivitis require veterinary attention. For example, if you notice excessive discharge, persistent squinting, or swelling, it's important to consult your vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. 

Home treatments, such as gently wiping away eye discharge with a damp cotton ball, can provide relief for mild symptoms, but they shouldn't be considered a substitute for professional care. If your cat's condition worsens or doesn’t improve after a few days of at-home care, see your vet as soon as possible to prevent further complications.

Kitten eye discharge

Kittens can be more prone to eye infections and eye discharge than adult cats due to their immature immune systems. Common signs of eye discharge in kittens include crusting around the eyes, excessive tearing, and redness. This can be caused by conjunctivitis, colds, or even trauma. It’s important to monitor kittens closely for changes in eye health, as their smaller size makes them more vulnerable to infections. If you notice any eye discharge, redness, or discomfort, consult your vet promptly to ensure the best treatment plan.

Other symptoms to look out for

In some cases, cats with eye inflammation may also experience other symptoms like nasal discharge, sneezing, or coughing, which could suggest a respiratory infection alongside the eye issue. If your cat has any of these signs, it's especially important to get them seen by a vet as soon as possible.

Respiratory infections can cause conjunctivitis and other symptoms that may require different treatment. Always keep an eye on your cat’s overall health and consult your vet if you notice any additional signs that concern you, as prompt treatment can help prevent the condition from spreading or getting worse.

Taking your cat for treatment or a check-up? Read our guide on how to make the vet less stressful for your cat.

FAQs about cat eye inflammation  

Written by Amanda Andersson, April 2024. Approved by licensed veterinary specialist Catarina Eliasson.