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My cat's eye is watering and squinting. Feline herpes flare-up?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 1 year and 9 months old | 9.5 lbs

My cat got sick last winter with what the vet referred to as feline herpes. Now that the winter is coming back she comes in from outside with one eye squinting and it kind of waters. Is it time for a vet visit? Would applying terramycin work? What can I do to prevent it from getting worse?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 2nd, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I’m sorry to hear Frida is having an eye issues. Herpes virus is a lifelong infection in cats, and can cause flare ups throughout their lives. These frequently present with eye or nasal discharge. Other issues, including a scratched cornea, can also present with similar signs. I would recommend she be evaluated by her regular veterinarian to ensure you have the right medications for the eye issue she is having. Good luck!

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