My Cat Keeps Squinting One Eye

What Does It Mean When My Cat Keeps Closing One Eye

As discussed in this article, there are many reasons why your cat keeps closing one of its eyes.

The most common reason why they close one eye is that they have something stuck such as dust or debris.

More serious causes can be ulcers or conditions such as glaucoma or conjunctivitis, which will need to be treated by a vet.

Cat Squinting One Eye: Causes Of Irritation And Treatment

Some eye problems in cats can be very painful. Injuries and infections can make your cat squint one eye or keep it half closed. Sometimes, the feline will shut or rub the eye to protect it and relieve pain.

The basic cause of eye squinting in cats is inflammation. It can result in signs such as watery eyes, discharge, redness, rubbing, blinking excessively, and a showing third eyelid. Feline eye infections such as blepharitis, conjunctivitis, scratched cornea, glaucoma or even allergies can cause squinting, sneezing and nasal discharge.

Unusually blinking, rubbing of the eyes, redness and holding one eye open or half closed are serious symptoms that your cat has an infected eye. The first thing you need to do is to take her to the veterinarian for a proper checkup. Do not try to soothe the irritated eye at home before she has been diagnosed.

Blepharitis: Theres A Reason For Those Puffy Eyes

Blepharitis is an inflammation and infection of the eyelids. It can also involve the muscles, connective tissues, and glands of the eye. Its more common in flat-faced cats like Persians and Himalayans, but other breeds of cats can get it, too. It can be caused by allergic reactions tumors, trauma to the eyelid, and other conditions like diabetes. Your cats own hair can also cause Blepharitis if it irritates their eyes. In addition, if your cats eyelid rolls in or out, that can also cause inflammation.

Symptoms:

• Rubbing or scratching at the eyes
• Dry or crusty areas around the eyes and discharge
• Hair may come out leaving leathery or bare areas around the eyes

Diagnosis & Treatment:

• Examination of the eyelids and surrounding areas to determine the presence and extent of inflammation, plus the cause of the infection
• Blood or urine tests and possibly cultures or biopsies to detect if an infection is present
• Clean aroundtheeyes while theyre healing with cotton balls wet with warm water
• Apply warm compresses to the area to help soothe the eyes
• Get an Elizabethan collar to protect the eyes during the healing process
• Topical ointments and eye drops may be prescribed to treat inflammation or infection
• Oral antibiotics for bacterial infections, in these cases the underlying cause still needs be addressed for a longer-term solution

You May Like: Why Do Cats Move Their Paws Up And Down

Reasons Why Cat Eyes Water

If you notice that one of your cat’s eyes is watering, this generally indicates that their eye is attempting to fight off some kind of threat to their health. This can range from a virus to a foreign object.

In many cases, if one or both of your cat’s eyes are watering, the cause will be minor and should clear up on its own without veterinary intervention. That being said, there are a number of more serious causes and symptoms associated with your cat’s eyes watering that could require more intensive care.

What To Do If Your Cat Has Signs Of An Eye Infection

The best thing you can do for your cat if you notice any signs of an eye infection or anything you think might be a sign of an eye infection is bring them to an animal hospital in Orlando, FL. A vet will examine your pet, looking for signs of an injury or infection. Based on what the vet finds, they’ll recommend the best treatment available to help clear up the infection and get your cat feeling their best again. If you have any questions about your cat’s eye health, Forever Vets Animal Hospital is here to help. Call 930-5151 to schedule an appointment for your feline friend today.

Serving Jacksonville, Orlando, Nocatee, St. Johns, St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and more.

You May Like: How Much Sodium Is In Cat Food

Third Eyelid Visible In Cats

The third eyelid is a small gland in the lower corner of the eye closest to the nose. Its normally completely hidden from view except when a cat gets a little sleepy.

The third eyelid should retract entirely when your cat is fully awake and alert. If it doesntwhether it is in one eye or bothyour cat has Horners syndrome, which can be a sign of disease.

If it only happens on occasion or disappears again when your cat is alert, you can probably monitor it at home. If it persists, schedule an appointment with your vet within a few days.

Are The Tissues Around Their Eyes Inflamed And Red

If you see this in one or both eyes, along with a watery discharge, thereâs a good chance they have conjunctivitis. You may know it by its nickname, pinkeye.

It’s the most common eye problem for cats. An infection, an allergy, or even dust can bring it on. Pinkeye is contagious, so most cats will have it at least once in their lives. They can get it at any age, but it most often affects young animals.

Feline herpes virus also causes pinkeye. Your cat can get shots to protect them from this, but they could have picked it up when they were a kitten. If they have the virus, they are infected for life. But the vaccine can reduce their symptoms.

Easing their stress can prevent flare-ups. If they have an outbreak of herpes-related pinkeye, your vet will prescribe antibiotics and an antiviral drug for you to use.

Pinkeye often clears up without treatment. If you see discharge and your cat seems to be in pain, take them to the vet. Theyâll make sure that a more serious problem isnât causing the symptoms.

Recommended Reading: Why Do Cats Tuck Their Paws

Treatment: What Do You Do When Your Cats Eye Is Watering

The right course of action to take if you discover that your cats eye is watering depends on what other symptoms they may have. For example, if you just notice a bit of wateriness for a couple of days, which eventually clears up on its own, you probably dont need to do anything.

However, if you notice other symptoms, such as irritation, redness, squinting, or swelling around the eye, this could be a sign of something more serious, such as pink eye, allergies, an eye infection, or even glaucoma. Noticing other symptoms, sustained watery eye symptoms, or visible pain or discomfort in your cat is a sign that its time to make a visit to the vet.

If your cat does have an infection or other serious cause of irritation in their eye, your vet will likely prescribe one of the following:

Conjunctivitis: Yes Cats Can Get Pink Eye Too

Conjunctivitis means inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is all the tissue around the eye that is normally pink. In a cat, you shouldnt really see conjunctiva unless there is a problem with it, and if the conjunctiva is inflamed by foreign bodies, infection, or injury, then the eye will appear red, puffy, and irritated. Your cat may squint. . Some other causes can be Feline Herpesvirus or Calicivirus. Whether the Conjunctivitis is bacterial, viral, or fungi-based, it can be cleared up quickly with a vet visit, diagnosis, and treatment.

Symptoms:

• Eye discharge that is white, yellow, or green
• Third eyelid covering part of the eye

Diagnosis & Treatment:

• Ocular tests, including ocular staining to check for corneal ulcers on the surface of the eye, ocular pressure testing to check for glaucoma, ocular exam, and possibly culture to determine the origin of the infection
• Blood or urine samples to assess overall health
• Eye drops or topical ointments applied to the eyes to reduce inflammation and heal the eyes
• Surgical removal of any foreign bodies debride corneal ulcers or repair a prolapsed third eyelid gland
• Oral antibiotics or anti-viral medications may be prescribedif an infection is present

Recommended Reading: Can Cats Be Afraid Of The Dark

Things That Can Cause Irritation To Your Cats Eyes

There are plenty of reasons why your cats eyes may have grown irritated over time as things like dust, perfume, cleaning chemicals, and smoke are just a few examples of irritants that can cause issues for your cats eyes.

If you notice that one eye is consistently closed or if the other eye has become red or swollen, it could be an indication of something more serious.

Reasons Why Your Cat’s Eyes Might Water

If your cat has watery eyes it likely means that the eye is attempting to fight off some form of health threat such as a virus or a foreign body. In many cases, the cause is minor and will clear up without veterinary care. That said, there are a host of more serious reasons that your cat’s eyes could be watering. To find the cause of your cat’s eye issue it’s necessary to look for other symptoms.

Don’t Miss: What Can You Give A Cat For Pain

Cat Eye Watering And Squinting

Your cat’s eyes have a moist outer layer that protects them by washing away debris like dirt. If you notice that your cat’s eyes have begun to water more than usual recently, or if you notice them squinting, it may be time to take them to the vet to ensure they don’t develop a health issue. Here, the specialists at our Cordova hospital explain a couple of reasons why your cat’s eyes are watering.

Why Does My Cat Always Sniff My Eye

• Recognition. Cats utilize their sense of smell to get to know their surroundings and the people around them. …
• Relaxation. …
• Cats Use Their Sense Of Smell For Identification. …
• It Is Expressing Love For You. …
• Grooming Instincts Kick In For Your Eyes. …
• Your Eyes Have a Salty Scent. …

• Why does my cat sneeze so often?

Also Check: How Long Do Kittens Need Wet Food

Foreign Body In The Eye

You may already know how it feels if you get a foreign object in your eye. The eye will not stop tearing until you get rid of the foreign objects that are causing the irritation. This is very similar with cats and even dogs. A small particle can enter the eye and force your cat to blink or squint in order to get rid of the foreign body.

Most common particles that enter the eye are dust, sand, glass or even metal particles. Sometimes the irritation of the eye may also come from eyelashes if they start to bend inward towards the cornea causing scratches and all sorts of irritation.

Foreign particles in the felines eye can cause blepharospasms, tearing and sometimes swelling. This could be the reason why your cat keeps one eye closed while the other open.

]Note: Attempting to remove some foreign particles from a cats eye at home can cause injury and severe pain. The procedure should be done by a qualified veterinarian.

According to Dr. Kirk N. Gelatt, VMD, DACVO, a distinguished professor, Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida:

Foreign bodies that adhere to the ocular surfaces are usually removed under topical anesthesia with either vigorous irrigation or small serrated ophthalmic forceps.

Why Is My Cat Squinting One Eye And Sneezing

You might assume that your cat has a cold or the cat flu, but this most likely indicates an eye infection. An infection can be caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, or upper respiratory tract problems.

Your furry friend may also exhibit other signs such as redness in the eye, some swelling, and nasal discharge along with sneezing and eye discharge. You should gently clean the discharge, and ensure that your kitty has a healthy diet, lots of rest, and fresh drinking water. Then call your vet.

You May Like: Why Does My Cat Make Biscuits On Me

Do I Need To Go To The Vet If My Cat Only Has Watery Eyes

If the watery eye or excessive discharge is accompanied by other symptoms like redness, blinking, or your kitty squinting one eye, then yes, go to the vet, because these symptoms together may indicate more serious eye problems.

The tear ducts of the eyeballs produce more tears than normal in watery eyes. Tearing helps the eye to remain lubricated and to cleanse the eyeball.

Conjunctivitis/pink Eye In Cats

Conjunctivitis in cats is more of a symptom than a disease. It occurs when the tissues surrounding the eye become inflamed and irritated.

A wide variety of conditions can cause pink eye in cats, so it can be difficult to determine the underlying cause. In some cases, the conjunctiva can be so swollen that it is not even possible for you to see your cats eye itself!

Although anti-inflammatory medications may reduce the swelling of the conjunctiva, it often takes additional testing and examination to identify what caused the inflammation.

Cats with conjunctivitis should be seen by a veterinarian within 24 hours.

Don’t Miss: How To Get My Cat To Sleep At Night

Corneal Ulceration: Direct Frontal Damage

Signs of a corneal ulcer in your cata scratch or tear in the see-through front part of the eye may show signs similar to other eye conditions. The eye may be red with discharge and there may be swelling near the ulcer. The cat may hold the eye closed or be sensitive to light. Veterinarians can do tests to identify the damage, and because corneal ulceration could be caused by injury, infections, or an inner eye disease, treatment will differ depending on the root cause.

For corneal ulcers that are more mild in nature, your cat may respond well to treatment for underlying conditions that require antibiotic drops and/or pain relief for the cat. But deeper ulcers may require surgery and can develop scar tissue and possibly burst if treatment is not administered properly by a vet.

Tip: How Can You Administer Ointment Or Drops To Your Feline Friend

Your first duty as a cat owner is to stay calm. Your pet will notice that you are hatching a sinister plan. So stay cool – but take the drops or ointment out of the fridge in time to make contact with the eye less unpleasant. Sit your pet on a table and take the cat in one arm so that the paws and head are held. Pull the lower eyelid down a little with one hand and drop the liquid or ointment into the conjunctival sac with the other as quickly as you are can. If your four-legged friend begins to thrash around, it might help to wrap them in a towel – or to obtain the assistance of a two-legged friend.

For other causes, such as a rolled eyelid, known as entropion, a vet will have to intervene surgically. Glaucoma, which is often genetically caused and in which the intraocular pressure constantly increases, is also usually treated with surgery.

Recommended Reading: How Long Does Canned Cat Food Last

Swollen Or Inflamed Third Eyelid

Cats have a third eyelid, which provides extra protection for their corneas. Sometimes, when a cat has an infection in their eyes, the third eyelid will swell and protrude. In some cases, the third eyelid will cover the eye, affecting your cat’s vision. Your cat will most likely need emergency vet care if you notice that their third eyelid is inflamed or swollen.

Cold Or Upper Respiratory Infection

If your cat is showing the familiar signs of a cold or upper respiratory infection , such as watery eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose, they are most likely suffering from a cat cold or feline upper respiratory infection.

Many cat colds heal up without the need for veterinary care within a week or so. However, if your cat’s symptoms worsen or do not improve within a few days, its time to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.

Note that, in some cases, a cold may be difficult to distinguish from allergies. A virtual visit can help determine the cause of the issue and if it is something that needs more immediate attention.

Read Also: Best Training Treats For Cats

Treatment Of Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca

• Using eye lubricant can keep the cats eye hydrate
• Use Antibiotic eye ointment to treat bacterial infections.
• Topical corticosteroid cream to reduce inflammation on the swollen tissue or around the cats eyes.
• Parotid duct transposition .

All these treatments are for dry eye syndrome. Most of the case cats recover this problem within 90 days. To advance the recovery, you can clean the cat eye with some specific medicine. All the antibiotics should be applied till the recommended time which will ensure the full recovery of the eye. Dont forget about the repeat medical test. Your cat can suffer pain while doing all this treatment so give him/her extra treat and toy to move their mind from strain and pain.

Harmless Reasons Why Your Cat Has One Eye Closed

Its important to cover the serious conditions that could be the cause of your cat having one eye closed however, there is a strong chance that the reason is entirely harmless.

The essential thing to look out for is the speed of your cats blinking.

If your cat is blinking slowly, then this is likely to be a sign of love and affection towards its owner and a sign that your cat is feeling calm and relaxing.

On the other hand, if your cat is blinking quickly, then it is most likely that your cats eye is irritated or may have a foreign item in its eye, and they are trying to get rid of the problem.

In most cases of irritation, this will heal within a few hours and shouldnt be a cause for further concern if your cat appears calm after a while.

You May Like: How To Tell If Your Cat Is Mixed With Bobcat