Identifying & Treating Feline Eye Diseases: A Comprehen

It's crucial to seek medical attention for eye diseases promptly to prevent the development of other complications.

① Conjunctivitis

What is it? Conjunctivitis occurs when the conjunctiva, a vascular mucous membrane, becomes inflamed due to irritation.

Examination: Check for swelling under the eyelids.

Cause: Usually triggered by an upper respiratory infection.

Symptoms: Squinting, sensitivity to light, and scratching the eyes.

② Keratitis

What is it? Keratitis is like the "clear glass" layer of the eye's outermost surface. When it becomes inflamed, it can alter transparency, leading to discomfort.

Examination: Look for a cloudy sensation in the eyes.

Cause: Various irritants can trigger it...

Symptoms: Similar to above, and in severe cases, it may be difficult to open the eyes.

③ Corneal Ulcer

What is it? It's reminiscent of an oral ulcer.

Examination: A fluorescent staining test is necessary to make a specific diagnosis!

Cause: Various irritants, such as viruses, bacteria, eyelid inversion, and foreign objects.

Symptoms: Similar to above, and also, there may be issues with pupillary constriction.

④ Glaucoma

What is it? Glaucoma occurs when the aqueous humor circulation in the eye is disrupted.

Aqueous humor: Imagine a lubricating fluid. It's a colorless, transparent tissue fluid.

Cause: Often due to developmental abnormalities.

Symptoms: Excessive tearing (tears should flow out from point A, but instead, they only flow from the corners of the eyes), severe pain (acute), loss of appetite, and excessive sleepiness.

What supplies should you keep on hand?

Occasionally, you might not be able to go to the hospital immediately, so it's important to have some emergency items prepared.

Saline solution

Cotton balls and cotton swabs

Eye drops/ointment: Opt for pet medication first, followed by human infant and pediatric formulas (such as the Chichu series for animals and the Sato series for animals).

Elizabethan collar: Prevents cats from rubbing their eyes and worsening the condition.

How to handle emergencies

‍If it's the middle of the night and you can't see a doctor, you can drop eye drops every 3 hours.

Then, place the affected eye in a dark or lowlight environment and seek medical attention the next morning.