Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat's eye is closed, watery, and red. Should I take her to a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 1 year and 8 months old

My cat has an eye problem. She has been keeping her eye closed all day. It has been tears but no other discharge. Her inner lid is red but there is no sign of an injury. I have four cats who are all quite young. They play pretty rough so,etimes. I was wondering if she might have got an injury. Otherwise she seems fine. What should I do to help her?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 1st, 2017

It is possible that Aspen has a scratch on the surface of her eye, or corneal abrasion. Squinty, watery eyes can also be a sign of a viral or bacterial upper respiratory infection. I'd recommend seeing your veterinarian- they might recommend a corneal stain which is a test where some dye is put into the eye to highlight a scratch. Corneal abrasions can become infected and usually antibiotic drops or ointments are prescribed as treatment.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on July 26th, 2020

    Yes, I would recommend that you take her to the vet. She could have a scratch or ulcer on the cornea of the eye, which causes excessive tears and squinting. The vet will examine the eye and may use a special stain to look for ulcers. She may need a prescription.

    Vote icon

    2Pet 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 pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
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
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored