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Cat Eye Care
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
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Looking into your cat's eyes may be one of the best things you'll ever do for her health. A good at-home eye exam before grooming can reveal watery, crusty, cloudy, or inflamed eyes that may indicate disease. Here are some simple tips to keep your cat's eyes healthy and bright.
Home inspection
Position the cat so that its eyes are facing a bright light and look into its eyes. They should be clear and clean, and the area around the eyeball should be white. The pupils should be the same size.
A thorough inspection
Use your thumb to gently pull back your cat's eyelid and look at the lining of the eyelid. It should be pink, not red or white.
What should you pay attention to?
How do you know if your cat's eyes are okay? Look for the following symptoms:
- Discharge
- Lacrimation
- Red or white lining of the eyelid
- Crusty dirt in the corners of the eyes
- Wool with traces of tears
- Closed eye(s)
- Clouding or change in eye color
- Visible third eyelid
Behavior that is intended to attract attention
Certain body language can also alert you to possible eye disorders. If your cat is constantly squinting or pawing at the eye area, examine its eyes carefully. If you notice any of the above symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
A little care - healthy cat eyes
Remove crusty dirt from your cat's eyes with a damp cotton swab. Always clean the corners of the eyes and use a fresh swab for each eye. Trim any long hairs that may obscure her vision or get into her eyes. Avoid using eye washes or drops unless prescribed by your veterinarian. If you notice any abnormal discharge while grooming your cat, contact your veterinarian.
What are the eye diseases?
The following eye diseases are commonly seen in cats:
- Conjunctivitis: One or both of your cat's eyes are red and swollen, and there may be discharge.
- Third Eyelid Protrusion: If the third eyelid becomes visible or covers the cat's eye, it may have had an injury or be suffering from diarrhea, worms, or a virus.
- Keratitis: If the cornea of your cat's eye is inflamed, the eye will be cloudy and watery.
- Cataracts: This clouding of the eye is often seen in older and diabetic cats.
- Glaucoma. The cornea becomes cloudy and the eye enlarges due to increased pressure in the eyeball.
- Bulging of the eye. Bulging can occur due to an accident, injury, or tumor of the eye.
- Retinal disease: Partial or complete loss of vision can occur when the light-sensitive cells in the eye degenerate.
- Watery eyes: The fur around your cat's eyes may be stained with tears due to clogged tear ducts or increased tear production.
Treatment of eye diseases
Many cat eye conditions can be treated with drops or ointments prescribed by your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can show you how to use eye and ear drops at home.
Prevention of eye diseases
The best way to prevent eye disease is to make sure your cat is up to date on vaccinations and receives regular checkups. Check her eyes regularly and contact your veterinarian if you notice any symptoms. Untreated eye disease can lead to poor vision or even blindness.