Eye Disease In Cats
(Question From A Reader)
Cat Eye Scar Tissue After Corneal Ulcer
photography by AskTheCatDoctorQUESTIONMy cat has had a bad eye now for at least 2 days. The second eye lid that they have in their eyes (note by Dr. this is actually called the 3rd eyelid) that is white in colour has started to move its' way across her eye. Also, her eye is kind of puffy and is watering constantly. She hasn't eaten or been drinking much of anything. What could this possibly be? I am wondering whether to take her to the vet's or just bathe it in salt water to see if that helps? What could it be and what should I do?
ANSWERYou should take your kitty to the vet right away. Eyes can't be replaced and are so important. What probably concerns me the most is the lack of appetite and thirst. That can be very detrimental.
Never treat an eye condition by yourself. Always consult a vet before you medicate your cat in any way. Without knowing what is going on in the eye, your home treatment could make it much worse.
The photo above illustrates what can happen to an eye that is left untreated or treated in the wrong way. This cat now cannot see out of that eye. It is completely "white". That is not a reflection you're looking at. It is scar tissue.
Best of Luck,
Dr. Neely