Cat Eye Problems: Discharge, Squinting, Redness and When to See a Vet

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

A cat's eyes are expressive and delicate. When they look different, whether red, watery, cloudy or half-closed, something needs attention. Many eye conditions are easy to treat when caught early and can damage vision if ignored.

Normal eyes

Healthy cat eyes are bright and clear, with pupils of equal size, no excess tearing and no visible third eyelid. A small amount of clear or dark brown crust in the corners is normal, especially after sleep. Some flat-faced breeds, such as Persians, tear more because of their facial structure. See the Persian and Exotic Shorthair profiles.

Signs of eye trouble

• Watery eyes or heavy discharge
• Yellow, green or bloody discharge
• Squinting, blinking or holding an eye closed
• Redness of the eye or lids
• Swelling of the eyelids
• Cloudy, bluish or white spots on the surface
• Visible third eyelid, the pinkish membrane in the corner
• A pupil that is unequal, very large or very small
• Pawing at the eye or rubbing the face
• Bumping into objects

Common causes

Upper respiratory infection. Herpesvirus and other germs often cause watery eyes, sneezing and nasal discharge. See upper respiratory infections in cats.

Conjunctivitis. Inflammation of the lining of the eye and lids, from infection, allergy or irritants.

Corneal ulcers. Scratches or sores on the surface of the eye, often from herpesvirus, scratches or injury. They are painful, and cats squint heavily. Ulcers can deepen and rupture without prompt treatment.

Foreign bodies and trauma. Grass seeds, dust, claws or fights.

Blocked tear ducts. Cause constant tearing and staining.

Uveitis. Inflammation inside the eye, often with underlying disease, such as FeLV or FIV. See FeLV and FIV in cats.

Glaucoma. Raised pressure inside the eye, causing pain, a bulging or cloudy eye and vision loss.

Hypertension. High blood pressure can cause bleeding or detachment of the retina, leading to sudden blindness. It often occurs with kidney disease or hyperthyroidism. See chronic kidney disease in cats and hyperthyroidism in cats.

Tumors and eyelid abnormalities. Less common.

Urgent signs

See a vet the same day if your cat has:

• Squinting or a closed eye
• A cloudy or blue cornea
• Blood in the eye
• An eye that bulges, is a different size or looks different in color
• Sudden blindness or dilated pupils
• Trauma to the eye

See the emergency warning signs guide.

What the vet will do

Your vet may stain the eye with a dye to detect ulcers, measure eye pressure, check tear production, examine the retina and test for infection. They may check blood pressure and run blood tests, since eye signs may reflect other disease. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause, and may include:

• Antibiotic or antiviral eye drops or ointment
• Pain relief
• Lubricants
• A protective cone to prevent rubbing
• Treatment of underlying disease, such as high blood pressure
• Surgery for severe ulcers, tumors or injuries

See how to give cat eye drops for tips on giving medication.

Cleaning eyes safely

For mild crusting:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Moisten a clean cotton pad or soft cloth with warm water or sterile saline.
3. Wipe gently from the inner corner outward, using a fresh pad for each eye.
4. Do not touch the surface of the eye.

Do not use human eye drops, redness relievers or leftover medicines. If the eye does not improve in a day, or the cat squints, see your vet.

Prevention

• Keep vaccinations current. See cat vaccination schedule.
• Keep the face clean, especially flat-faced breeds.
• Keep cats indoors to avoid fights and injuries.
• Reduce stress, which triggers herpes flare-ups.
• Have older cats' blood pressure checked. See senior cat care guide.

Eye problems in kittens and seniors

Kittens often develop eye infections as part of respiratory disease and can lose an eye if untreated. Seniors may have high blood pressure, which damages the retina silently. Regular checkups can find these problems early. See senior cat care guide.

Breed differences

Flat-faced breeds have shallow eye sockets and prominent eyes, which makes them prone to tearing, staining and ulcers. Wipe their faces daily, and watch for squinting. Other breeds may inherit retinal disease, so ask breeders about screening.

Protecting eyes at home

Keep your cat's nails trimmed to reduce scratches, avoid sprays near the face, and keep cleaning products away from areas your cat uses. See how to trim cat nails and cat-proofing your home.

Kittens

Kitten eye discharge is common and can be serious. See kitten sneezing and eye discharge.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.