Feline Eye Diseases: Common Conditions and Care

Conjunctivitis:

The conjunctiva is a mucous membrane rich in blood vessels. When it becomes irritated, it can swell and become red and inflamed. Bacterial infections, allergies, trauma, foreign bodies, and immunemediated diseases can all lead to conjunctivitis. If left untreated, it may exacerbate the swelling of the conjunctiva, potentially leading to terrifying complications such as keratitis, corneal ulcers, and corneal perforation.

Keratitis:

The cornea is a transparent tissue without blood vessels, which maintains its clarity. When it becomes inflamed, its transparency is altered, causing the cornea to appear cloudy. Symptoms in cats may include squinting, excessive tearing, photophobia, pawing at the eyes, and pain. These symptoms are similar to those of conjunctivitis, so it's important to seek veterinary care promptly.

Keratitis Ulcer:

The cornea is typically smooth and even. If an ulcer is present, it will appear as an uneven indentation. A fluorescein stain is necessary to diagnose it. Treatment usually takes 12 weeks and can be costly.

Epiphora:

The lacrimal glands secrete tears that are distributed over the cornea by the third eyelid when blinking, preventing the corneal cells from drying out and dying. Since tears are continuously produced, they continuously enter the corner of the eye and are then drained through the nasolacrimal duct into the nasal cavity. When the nasolacrimal duct is blocked, the skin around the eye becomes moist and inflamed due to longterm exposure to tears.

Glaucoma:

The eye is filled with a liquid called aqueous humor, which maintains the normal shape of the eye and is constantly renewed. If the aqueous humor cannot drain from the eye, it can cause increased intraocular pressure, known as glaucoma. The normal intraocular pressure in cats is around 1525 mmHg. Treatment for glaucoma is determined based on the situation, with the goal of controlling the pressure to avoid permanent vision impairment. This includes osmotic diuretics, lowering intraocular pressure eye drops, and surgical procedures. If none of these methods show significant improvement, the best option may be an enucleation surgery.

Cataracts:

Cataracts are defined as any nonphysiological opacity in the pupil. Some are congenital, while others are caused by radiation, trauma, or eye diseases.

Important Reminder: Always keep your pet's eyes protected with a collar to prevent eyerelated diseases.