Understanding Why Your Cat's Eyes Are Bloodshot
Bloodshot eyes in cats are a common concern for many pet owners, often indicating an underlying health issue. The redness in the whites of a cat's eyes (sclera) can be a symptom of infections, trauma, environmental irritants, or systemic diseases. Knowing the potential causes and signs can help you act quickly and ensure your cat receives the proper care.
Common Causes of Bloodshot Eyes in Cats
- Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): This is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the eyelids and eyeballs. It can result from viruses (like feline herpesvirus), bacteria, allergens, or irritants. Symptoms include red, itchy eyes, squinting, and discharge.
- Eye Infections: Often caused by bacteria or viruses, these may accompany upper respiratory infections. Look for signs such as sneezing, coughing, eye discharge, and lethargy.
- Corneal Ulcers or Injuries: Scratches or trauma to the cornea from play or debris may cause redness, tearing, and visible discomfort.
- Allergies: Like humans, cats can react to dust, pollen, or mold, leading to red, itchy, and watery eyes along with possible sneezing and nasal discharge.
- Irritants: Exposure to smoke, perfumes, detergents, or cleaners can irritate a cat’s eyes, causing redness and excessive tearing.
- Glaucoma: This serious condition involves increased eye pressure that can damage the optic nerve. Symptoms include redness, cloudiness, dilated pupils, and vision loss.
- Uveitis: Inflammation affecting the middle layer of the eye often linked with infections, immune system disorders, trauma, or systemic disease. Accompanied by squinting, redness, sensitivity to light, and color changes in the eye.
- Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca): Caused by low tear production, it leads to dry, red eyes and thick, sticky discharge.
- Trauma: Injuries from fights or accidents can cause blood vessels in the eye to rupture, leading to redness and swelling.
- Foreign Bodies: Debris like grass, dust, or small particles can get trapped under the eyelid, irritating and reddening the eye.
Recognizing Symptoms Associated with Bloodshot Eyes
Aside from obvious redness, be on the lookout for:
- Discharge that may be clear, yellow, green, or bloody
- Squinting or blinking more than usual
- Swelling around the eye
- Partially closed or fully closed eye
- Behavioral changes, such as hiding or irritability
- Visible trauma or eyelid abnormalities
Diagnosing the Cause
A veterinarian visit is essential for proper diagnosis. The vet will typically:
- Conduct a physical and eye examination
- Use fluorescein dye to detect corneal damage
- Measure tear production and intraocular pressure
- Possibly order blood work or imaging to find systemic causes
Determining whether one or both eyes are affected can also offer clues—injuries often affect one eye, while infections usually involve both.
Treatment Options
Treatment varies based on the underlying issue:
- Topical treatments: Antibiotic or antiviral eye drops or ointments for infections
- Oral medications: To manage systemic diseases or immune responses
- Eye flushing: For debris or chemical exposure
- Environmental management: Remove allergens and irritants like perfumes or smoke
- Surgery: In severe trauma or structural eye disease cases
Clean discharge gently using moistened cotton balls, and NEVER use human over-the-counter eye drops unless prescribed.
When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Attention
Consult your vet promptly if you notice:
- Sudden swelling or inability to open the eye
- Eye pain (e.g., pawing at the eye, flinching)
- Loss of vision or changes in behavior
- No improvement after 24–48 hours of supportive care
Preventing Eye Problems in Cats
- Regularly inspect your cat's eyes for redness or discharge
- Keep vaccinations up to date, especially for viral causes
- Reduce your pet’s exposure to dust, smoke, and chemicals
- Provide prompt care for any eye or respiratory infection
- Use vet-approved cleaning solutions and avoid human medications
Maintaining proper eye health visibility can be crucial for your cat’s overall well-being. Early detection and immediate care prevent complications, including permanent damage or blindness.
