Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my cat squinting one eye and has eye discharge? Vet or wait?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Maine Coon | Male | neutered | 1 year and 2 months old | 11.2 lbs

Cat squinting with one eye and has some eye discharge. Discharge is clear/brown/grey. Should I wait it out or see a vet immediately? Does it mean something serious or is it likely he can fight it off on his own? Just noticed this morning, worried he picked up a virus but money is tight right now so I don’t want to rush to the vet if it’s not serious!

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 3rd, 2019

A squinting eye is never good - usually means pain like there is a scratch or something on the cornea. He should see a vet as soon as possible. If it is a scratch and not treated quickly can get worse and cause you more trouble/money in the end.

Vote icon

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 15th, 2020

    Hi, and thanks for your question. That is likely to be due to a mild to moderate conjunctivitis, probably secondary to a trauma or infection. A check up would be needed as appropriate treatment would include antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops. Corneal injuries must be ruled out as well. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on June 9th, 2020

    The squinting and eye discharge in only one eye usually means there is something other than allergies as the cause. It could be something that rubbed on her eye, like sand, something stuck under the eyelid, corneal ulcer or abrasion, among a few other things. I would recommend taking Lucy to the vet for evaluation.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored