Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva of the
eye. The conjunctiva is a mucous membrane, similar to the
lining of the mouth and nose.
Many cats have chronic problems with
conjunctivitis. Often, the
comes and goes.
The eyes may be any or all of the following: red, swollen, watery, crusty, or containing
The problem may affect one
or both eyes
Causes of Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis in cats is almost always caused by infection.
Infectious conjunctivitis is
caused either from a viral or bacterial infection.
The most common causes of Infectious Conjunctivitis in cats
Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1)
is an upper respiratory infection. Herpesvirus is also often
referred to as
Feline Herpesvirus is a common
cause of eye infections in cats and kittens.
Kittens are commonly exposed to Herpesvirus and for many cats no further
problems occur. However, the cat may become a carrier of the virus. The
virus may remain dormant but it can flare up later in life in times of
Read more on Feline Stress
Complications of Herpesvirus may involve
corneal ulcers. A Corneal Ulcer is a serious condition that requires
urgent veterinary attention.
*2. Feline Chlamydophila.
(formerly known as Chlamydia) Kittens and young cats are more vulnerable
to this infection although it can be found in cats of all ages.
is a common cause of infectious conjunctivitis in cats. Antibiotics in
the form of eye ointment or tablets given by mouth are often prescribed
for associated conjunctivitis.
Feline Calicivirus (FCV).
The calicivirus causes cold like symptoms which result in
runny nose and eyes among other symptoms. The infection can affect the membranes of the eye
but does not cause eye ulcers.
Primary viral infections are often complicated by secondary bacterial
The eyes may be filled with pus when secondary bacterial infection invades.
Secondary bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics. Your vet
may prescribe an antibiotic ointment or oral treatment. (Tablets)
Other Causes of Conjunctivitis in Cats
Injury, such as a scratch to the eye
objects in the eye
Congenital Defects such as small or absent tear ducts.
* Persian Cats
may suffer from chronic eye infections. Persians are prone to hereditary
eye conditions that can result in excess tearing and eye infections.
What are some of the Symptoms of
Cat Conjunctivitis? (Also known as Pink Eye)
* The cat's eye membranes may be red and swollen
* Thecat's eye
or a greenish discharge.This may suggest secondary bacterial infection.
* Thick secretions that dry and crust the eyelids
* Clear and watery discharge from the cat's eye.
* Persistent squinting
* Excessive blinking
* It may affect one or both eyes
* The cat shows other signs of upper respiratory infection
such as sneezing and a discharge from the nose. (Cat
when both eyes are involved a virus is usually responsible. The virus
could be herpesvirus or calicivirus.
If on the other hand one eye is infected and it then progresses to
the other eye some days later then it is more likely to be caused by
Feline Chlamydia or Mycoplasma.
Treatment for Cat Conjunctivitis at Home
Bathe the eyes in a
saline solution. This helps relieve irritation and is useful in washing
out viral particles from the eye. Also use it to remove
crusts from the eye.
Saline Solution: Mix one quarter of a teaspoon of table salt
to one cup of water. Bathe the eyes 3 or 4 times a day. Use
a cotton ball to drizzle a small amount of the solution into
the cat's eyes.
Be sure to make a fresh solution and fresh cotton ball for
each bathing as the solution may become contaminated with
Pus in the Cat's Eyes
If the eyes become filled with pus suspect a
secondary bacterial infection. You will need to consult with your Vet as
an antibiotic treatment is usually necessary.
Vaccines to Prevent Cat
Vaccines are available to protect cats against Chlamydophila,
Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) and
Feline Calicivirus (FCV)
strongly suggested that you consult
your veterinarian for a definite diagnosis for all eye problems.
article is for information purposes only and is in no way intended to
replace veterinary advice
Different breeds of cats
with pictures, description and information on each of the listed domestic cat