Cats' Conjunctivitis and Keratitis: Symptoms & Treatmen

Cat Conjunctivitis and Keratitis Symptoms

When it comes to cat conjunctivitis and keratitis, there are several telltale signs to look out for. These include an abundance of yellow or greenish discharge around or inside the cat's eyes. In severe cases, you might notice the eyes becoming sealed shut, frequent tearing, difficulty in opening the eyes, excessive blinking, swollen and red conjunctiva, noticeable differences in eye size, photophobia, pain, a white film over the cornea, or an irregular surface. Additionally, cats may frequently wipe their faces with their front paws or continuously scratch at their eyes.

The primary causes of feline ophthalmic diseases can be attributed to several factors:

1. Feline Herpesvirus is the most common cause of feline ophthalmic diseases.

Herpesvirusinduced eye conditions often present with bloodtinged and reddishbrown discharge, conjunctival congestion, and may lead to secondary bacterial infections, resulting in puslike discharge. Treatment involves isolating the cat, cleaning the environment, feeding them a diet rich in lysine, and providing nutritional support for earlystage patients.

2. Chlamydial Infection, a Common Eye Disease

Chlamydia primarily targets mucosal tissues, with the conjunctiva being its primary target. The incubation period is typically 25 days, and it is commonly associated with unilateral or bilateral conjunctivitis and conjunctival edema. Cats may also experience occasional sneezing, and the potential后遗症 could include conjunctival adhesions. Unlike the herpesvirus, chlamydial infections rarely cause conjunctivitis or corneal ulcers. Treatment includes using tetracycline ointment instead of gentamicin ointment, applying it to both eyes four times a day for 710 days. Additionally, oral doxycycline (doxycycline hyclate) can be administered (510mg/kg, once every 24 hours, for at least 4 weeks; consult a veterinarian if there is no improvement and seek medical attention promptly).

3. Allergies Leading to Eye Diseases

Cats may sustain eye injuries due to external factors, such as a blow to the conjunctiva. When the eyes are stimulated, they can become congested and red, leading to conjunctivitis. If the swelling is severe, it may require immediate veterinary care.

Whether it's conjunctivitis or keratitis, please don't panic. I've compiled a few targeted treatment plans for your feline companion:

1. Thoroughly clean the eye discharge using physiological saline. Use a medical cotton ball soaked in physiological water to wipe away the discharge around the eyes, ensuring that the water is not contaminated.

2. Fit your cat with a head collar to prevent them from scratching or selfharming, which could lead to more severe consequences.

3. Use ophthalmic medications in the correct order; do not mix up the sequence.

After all the information I've shared about our feline friends' eyes, have you all remembered? The eyes are incredibly important, and even the tiniest structures highlight their significance. So, cat lovers, please don't neglect your pets' eyes!