Conjunctivitis in cats

This condition refers to redness and inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the tissue that covers the inner surface of the eyelids and the white part of the eye (sclera). Conjunctivitis in cats is often associated with cat flu infections. It is more common in young cats and kittens. Most cases are not serious and clear with prompt treatment. It’s important to talk to a vet if your cat’s eyes look abnormal or irritated. 

What causes conjunctivitis in cats?

• It’s mainly caused by viruses and bacteria, especially those involved in cat flu (such as Herpesvirus, Calicivirus, and Chlamydophila)

• Other causes include:

  • Eye ulcers

  • Trauma

  • Foreign objects, such as grass seeds

  • Parasites

  • Immune-mediated diseases

  • Systemic diseases, such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline leukaemia virus (FeLV), or feline panleukopenia

  • Allergies and environmental irritation (dust, smoke, chemicals, air fresheners)

  • Glaucoma (a disease that increases the pressure inside of the eye)

  • Uveitis (inflammation of the middle layer of the eye)

  • Tear duct diseases

  • Eyelid and eyelash problems

  • Eye tumours

Is conjunctivitis more likely in some cats?

• Cats that live with multiple other cats are more prone to conjunctivitis due to infectious causes (virus, bacteria)

• Kittens and cats with a weakened immune system usually are more severely affected

• Stressful environment or episodes of stress can cause a relapse of infectious conjunctivitis

• Flat-faced cat breeds such as Persian, Himalayan, and Exotic short-hair are at higher risk. Read more about BOAS in cats.

Symptoms of conjunctivitis

• Eye discharge (yellow, green, or clear)

• Pink or red eye

• Pawing or rubbing at the face

• Blinking more than usual or squinting

• Swelling of the tissue that lines the eyelids and surface of the eye (conjunctiva)

• Inner corner of the eye membrane (third eyelid) more pronounced

How is conjunctivitis diagnosed?

Vets may need to use various tests to help find out the cause of the conjunctivitis:

• Visual examination with a special instrument called an ophthalmoscope

• Dye test to check for corneal ulcers or blocked tear ducts

• Tear production test to check for dry eye

• Testing the pressure inside the eye

Vets will sometimes take eye samples for special tests to send to a lab. This may include:

• Conjunctival swabs for bacterial culture and sensitivity testing

• Testing for viruses

• Blood tests to check for other illnesses affecting the body and the eyes

Your vet may need to sedate your cat to check their eye, especially if the eye is painful or a foreign body is suspected.

What’s the treatment for conjunctivitis?

It’s recommended that you speak to a vet to see if your cat needs medical treatment. Until then:

• Bathe the eye with boiled cooled water, using a clean cotton pad

• Use a buster collar on your cat to prevent damage to the eye

Don’t use human medications for your cat without speaking to a vet first!

Vets prescribe different treatments depending on what’s causing the conjunctivitis. Treatments include:

• General treatment for mild conjunctivitis:

  • Eye cleaners: washes, wipes, gels

  • Lubricating, soothing treatment: gels, ointments

• Prescription medicines depend on the underlying cause:

  • Antibiotics

  • Antiviral medications taken by mouth

  • Steroid anti-inflammatory drops

• Other treatments or surgery may be necessary to treat the underlying cause of conjunctivitis, such as glaucoma and eyelid problems.

What to expect

The progression and outcome of conjunctivitis depend on the underlying condition. In some cases it can become a recurring problem. If so, the strategies below may help.

How to prevent conjunctivitis in cats

• Use a cotton wool pad soaked in warm water to wipe any discharge from their eyes and nose

• Reduce stress as much as possible

• In multi-cat households, conjunctivitis is less likely to spread to other cats if cats with conjunctivitis are separated

• Getting your cat vaccinated against cat flu can help reduce the risk of viral causes

Is conjunctivitis contagious in cats? Will I catch it?

• Most common causes of conjunctivitis are very contagious between cats, but not to other animals

• Even though it’s very unlikely you will get conjunctivitis from your cat, you should always wash your hands after applying medications or touching your cat’s face during treatment.

When to worry about conjunctivitis in cats

If your cat shows any of the following signs call your vet:

• Squinting or inability to hold the eye(s) open

• Signs of pain, including pawing at the face

• Signs of systemic illness, including coughing, tiredness, decreased appetite, vomiting, or diarrhoea

• Failure to improve despite treatment

Call us at Joii if your cat has any of the following:

• Discharge from the eyes and nose

• Eye redness or squinting

• Sneezing

• Nasal congestion

• Coughing or wheezing

• Mouth, nose or lip wounds

• Stress

• If you’re not sure, it’s best to be safe

The vets and nurses at the Joii app are always available to give you advice and answer any questions.