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My senior cat's pupils are suddenly dilated and she can't see.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 7 lbs

My 16-year old cat's eyes seemed to change all of a sudden. Her pupils are dilated very large and don't change in light. She seems a little confused, too, and like she can't see very well.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Amy S. Eutsey, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 4th, 2018

I would recommend that Monet see a veterinarian. Sudden onset of blindness and dilated pupils can be secondary to high blood pressure in older cats. They can suffer from hyperthyroidism or a heart disease called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Both of these geriatric cat problems can cause these changes with her eyes. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 20th, 2017

    Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! There could be something wrong with his eyes but there could also an elevated blood pressure. I recommend seeing your vet tomorrow for a blood pressure check and blood work to check his kidney function. This can also cause elevated pressure. Good luck and kisses to Toby!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 20th, 2017

    A sudden change in pupil dilation (referred to as mydriasis) that is non responsive to light can be indicative of damage to some of her cranial nerves or detachment of her retina. Certainly trauma can cause these changes, but other possible reasons include high blood pressure, blood clot formation, cancer, or infectious diseases. Iala should be examined by her vet with a full neurologic exam, blood pressure measurement, and lab testing (CBC, chemistry, T4 (thyroid hormone) and urinalysis).

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