What is Conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is when the thin layer covering the white part of your cat's eye becomes sore and swollen. This layer is called the conjunctiva. It is a bit like the inside of your mouth or nose.
Many cats have ongoing problems with conjunctivitis. It can come and go. Sometimes, only one eye is affected. Other times, both eyes are affected.
Your cat's eyes may look red, swollen, watery, crusty, or filled with pus.
Causes of Conjunctivitis in Cats
Most of the time, conjunctivitis in cats is caused by infections. These can be viral or bacterial.
- 1. Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1): This is an upper respiratory infection, often called Cat Flu. It is a common reason for eye problems, especially in kittens. Some cats carry the virus for life, and it can flare up when they are stressed. Complications like corneal ulcers are serious and need a vet right away.
- 2. Feline Chlamydophila: This infection used to be called Chlamydia. Young cats and kittens are more at risk, but any cat can get it. Antibiotics, like eye ointments or tablets, are often used to treat it.
- 3. Feline Calicivirus (FCV): This virus gives cats cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose and eyes. It does not cause eye ulcers.
Sometimes, a viral infection can make it easier for bacteria to infect the eye. When this happens, you may see pus, and your vet might prescribe antibiotics.
Other Causes
- Allergies
- Injury or scratches
- Something stuck in the eye
- Problems from birth, like small or missing tear ducts
- Persian cats are more likely to have ongoing eye problems because of their genes
Symptoms of Cat Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
- Red and swollen eye membranes
- Mucus, pus, or greenish discharge (may mean there is also a bacteria infection)
- Thick, crusty stuff on the eyelids
- Watery discharge from the eyes
- Squinting a lot
- Blinking more than usual
- Can affect one or both eyes
- Other signs of illness like sneezing or a runny nose (could be Cat Flu)
If both eyes get pink eye at the same time, it is likely caused by a virus like herpesvirus or calicivirus.
If one eye gets pink eye and then the other one gets it later, it may be due to Chlamydia or another bacteria.
How to Care for Cat Conjunctivitis at Home
- Use a saline solution to clean your cat's eyes. This helps wash away germs and crusts.
- To make the solution, mix a quarter teaspoon of table salt into one cup of water.
- Use a clean cotton ball for each eye. Drip some solution into the eye 3 or 4 times a day. Make a fresh solution every time to keep it clean.
When You See Pus in the Eyes
If your cat's eyes have pus, it likely has a secondary bacterial infection. See your vet because antibiotics are usually needed.
Vaccines to Help Prevent Conjunctivitis
Vaccines can help protect your cat from getting Chlamydophila, Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1), and Feline Calicivirus (FCV).
Always check with your vet for a proper diagnosis and the right care for any eye problems.
This article is for information only. It does not replace advice from your vet.