Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My blue-eyed cat's eyes move back and forth. Is this normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Male | unneutered

My cat acts completely fine but her eyes go back and forth some times fist some times slow. She is a snowshoe part farm cat and her eyes are baby blue

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 20th, 2016

This sounds like your kitty may have what is called a congenital nystagmus (fast or slow movement of the eyes back and forth). This is commonly seen in Himalayan, Siamese, albino, and white haired cats. Typically this condition is not suggestive of any serious neurological abnormalities with the blue iris pets that have non-pigmented retinas (seen only on ophthalmic exam with vet). This condition most likely has been present since your kitty was born, but it was not as intense and therefore could have gone unnoticed. I would recommend that you have a vet to look at the eyes during a regular exam just to double check our suspicions and also to ensure the non-pigmented retina is there. This condition also does not tend to affect your cats vision or quality of life.

Vote icon

3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jennifer Ladd, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I am confused if we are talking about a cat, or a bunny as noted in the "Pets info". The movement you are describing sounds like nystagmus. Nystagmus or movement of the eyes in a repetitive motion can be cause by many things, but a lesion in the brain certainly can cause this. My differentials would depend heavily on the type of animal, the age, and history. Either way it sounds like you animal needs a thorough neurologic examination done by a veterinarian.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Can I use human contact lens solution as eye drops for my mouse?
Can you use contact lens saline for your mouse's eye drops? A certified vet discusses ingredients like boric acid and potassium chloride. Find safe solutions for your pet!
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My guinea pig has a growing lump on its neck. Can it heal itself?
Guinea pig has a growing, hard neck lump? Worried about vet costs? A certified veterinarian advises on crucial steps for diagnosis and your pet's well-being.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's eye looks strange but doesn't seem to hurt. What's wrong?
Is your pet's eye issue painless? A DVM explains potential corneal trauma or scratch. Immediate vet care is crucial to save their eye. Get expert advice now!
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored