Corneal Ulceration in Cats: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Cats are natural hunters, constantly exploring their surroundings, which sometimes leads to injuries like corneal ulceration. This common eye condition affects the cornea—the clear, outermost layer of a cat's eye—resulting in pain and discomfort. Understanding what causes corneal ulcers and recognising symptoms early can save your feline friend from prolonged distress or even vision loss.
Why Does the Cornea Get Injured?
The cornea's position as the outer layer of the eye makes it especially vulnerable to injury compared to other eye structures. Typical causes include scratches from bushy gardens, encounters with other cats, or foreign objects such as dirt trapped under the eyelids. Beyond physical trauma, other factors can harm the cornea:
- Scratches or lacerations from fights or rough surfaces
- Ingrown eyelashes causing repeated irritation
- Foreign bodies lodged in the eye
- Chemical exposure from irritants or cleaning products
- Heat or smoke damage
- Viral infections, notably feline herpesvirus (FHV)
- Bacterial infections
- Reduced tear production causing dry eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)
Explaining Corneal Ulceration
Corneal ulceration, an open sore on the cornea, often stems from these causes and leads to significant pain. Some breeds, such as the Himalayan, Burmese, and Persian cats, are more susceptible due to their flat faces or prominent eyes. Older cats may develop chronic corneal ulcers requiring ongoing management.
Recognising Symptoms Early
Cats with a corneal ulcer often experience discomfort that makes them paw or rub their eyes, potentially worsening the condition. Key signs to watch for include:
- Excessive tear production
- Coloured discharge or mucus from the eye
- Cloudiness or opacity in the cornea
- Redness or inflammation around the eye
- Frequent squinting or keeping the eye partially closed
Diagnosing and Treating Corneal Ulcers
If you spot any of these symptoms, prompt veterinary examination is crucial to prevent complications like infection or blindness. Vets usually perform tests such as:
- Applying a fluorescent dye to highlight any ulcerations under special light
- Measuring tear production to check for dry eye
- Analysing eye discharge to identify bacterial or viral causes
Treatment plans may include:
- Antibiotic or antiviral eye medications to combat infection
- Pain relief to ease discomfort
- Protective collars to stop self-inflicted injuries
- Addressing any underlying eyelid or tear production issues
It’s vital to complete the full course of prescribed medication to ensure comprehensive healing and prevent recurrence.
Is Prevention Possible?
While cats' curious nature makes preventing every injury impossible, regular checks can catch early signs. Maintain a safe outdoor environment free of harmful chemicals, and watch for changes in your cat’s eyes or behaviour. Fast veterinary intervention reduces discomfort and helps avoid chronic problems.
Managing Chronic Corneal Ulceration in Older Cats
Older cats often face recurring ulcers that become a long-term concern. Continued veterinary care, including long-term topical ointments, can manage symptoms effectively. Regular check-ups are essential to monitor for spread to the other eye and to adapt treatment as needed, ensuring your senior pet enjoys comfort and quality of life.
Conclusion
The welfare of our feline companions depends on vigilant care and timely treatment of conditions like corneal ulceration. Keep a watchful eye on your cat’s behaviour and eye appearance, especially if they roam outdoors. Catching corneal injuries early helps maintain your cat’s vision and wellbeing—a happy, healthy cat means a joyful pet owner.
