My cat's eye is irritated. What are the causes and how can I help?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed
My cats eye has looked pretty irritated since she woke up this morning I thought maybe my other cat scratched it but there is no scratch on the eye
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on November 22nd, 2017
Since she does not want to hold it open, it may be an abrasions on the cornea from a previous foreign body such as a hair or a small scratch that is not big or deep. It can be from allergies or a mild respiratory infection that is early and just starting. You can flush the eye with saline eye drops and apply a warm compress if she will let you. If this does not get better in 24 hours or you notice further respiratory signs then I would get her checked by a vet as soon as possible
4Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on February 24th, 2017
Without actually examining her eye, it is very difficult to know what is causing her problem. If your vets can't diagnose than she should be examined by a veterinary ophthalmologist to diagnose and determine if treatment is needed.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on December 17th, 2018
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be due to an eye injury or conditions such as a corneal laceration, corneal ulcer, conjunctivitis, dry eye (also known as KCS), among many other conditions. It is just not possible to know without being able to look at the eyes up close. I highly recommend that you have Genie evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Further therapy would be based on the findings. Good luck and best wishes!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on February 28th, 2017
Poor Munchkin! It's quite serious that she cannot open her eye all the way. Without seeing her in person, I can't rule out an injury to it or an eye infection, but I can say she needs to see a vet immediately. The eye is such a delicate and important structure that any problem with it should be considered an emergency. That's because leaving it untreated can lead to vision loss. I would take Munchin into an ER vet or find a vet on call to see her now to have her eye examined and diagnosed so it can be treated.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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