Uveitis in cats is an excruciating and potentially vision-threatening inflammation of the middle layer of the eye. In this article, I, Ivana Crnec, DVM, will explain the basics of the condition.
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Uveitis in Cats Symptoms
Red and Watery Eyes: Redness is the first sign of inflammation, followed by epiphora or increased tear production.
- Photophobia: Inflammation of the eye causes sensitivity to bright lights, a situation that is called photophobia.
- Squinting and Blepharospasm: To protect the eye from light, the cat keeps it partially closed (squinting) or blinks repeatedly (blepharospasm) to relieve the pain.
- Pain: “Expression of pain is not always obvious in cats, but the affected cat may be less active than normal,” warns Ellen Bjerkås, DVM, in a VIN article. Use the Petcube Pet Camera to keep an eye on your cat at all times.
- Abnormal Pupil Appearance: As the condition progresses, the pupil may constrict or appear irregular in shape.
- Bloodshot or Cloudy Eye: The eye becomes tainted with bloodshot or cloudy as the inflammation spreads.
What Causes Uveitis in Cats
Uveitis has many causes in cats. Trauma, cancer, and parasites can result in unilateral uveitis (affecting one eye).
Systemic infections, metabolic diseases, and immune-mediated conditions cause inflammation of both eyes (bilateral uveitis).
Studies suggest that “Infectious diseases remain the most common cause of feline uveitis.”
The top culprits are feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and feline leukemia virus (FeLV).
Often, the underlying cause of uveitis in cats is unknown. In such cases, the condition is known as idiopathic uveitis.
Note: Cats with uveitis due to FeLV or FIV are contagious to other cats, while cats with uveitis caused by toxoplasmosis are infectious to both other cats and people.
Uveitis in Cats Treatment
There are several treatment options for uveitis in cats. Consult with the vet to determine the best course of action and begin treatment as soon as possible.
- Eye Drops: Topical medications are recommended to minimize the inflammation and pain. Corticosteroids (prednisolone, dexamethasone) are the most commonly prescribed eye drops. Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, such as flubiprofen, are also used.
- Systemic Medications: Systemic medications, such as antibiotics and antivirals, are used to treat uveitis caused by infectious diseases. Systemic corticosteroids are given in such cases, as well.
- Surgery: “If the vet says the eye is completely blind and painful, removal may be a great option,” agrees a Reddit user. Surgery is also the treatment of choice if the underlying cause is a tumor.
Left untreated, uveitis in cats leads to blindness. The top three complications of untreated eye inflammation are “lens luxations, cataract formation, and glaucoma,” according to studies.
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Conclusion
Uveitis is an extremely common, painful, and vision-impairing condition in cats. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preserving the cat’s eyesight and ensuring a high quality of life.