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134 results for “feline conjunctivitis”
Cat Upper Respiratory Infection: Symptoms and Treatment
A cat upper respiratory infection is inflammation of the mucous membranes of the upper airways. Affected cats typically cough, sneeze, and have a runny nose, sometimes with yellow nasal discharge, and a sudden drop in temperature, poor nutrition, or stress can trigger an outbreak. The usual culprits are viruses such as herpesvirus and calicivirus, bacteria such as Chlamydia, and fungi such as Cryptococcus. This article covers the common pathogens, how viral, bacterial, and fungal infections differ in their signs, what else can mimic these symptoms, and the supportive care and medications veterinarians rely on to treat them, from keeping the eyes and nose clear to antiviral, antibiotic, and antifungal therapy.
Treatment for Corneal Ulcers in Cats
A vet diagnoses a cat's corneal ulcer with a full eye exam and fluorescein staining, though finding the cause can be tricky. Possible triggers include abnormal lashes, eyelid faults, dry eye, feline herpesvirus, and uveitis as a complication. A thorough exam, stain test, tear test, and cultures pin down size, depth, and infection so the right treatment can start.
Dealing with Cat Tear Stains
Tear overflow (epiphora) happens when tears overproduce or the nasolacrimal duct blocks, spilling onto the fur. The reddish-brown stain comes from porphyrin—an iron waste in tears that oxidizes in air and sunlight. Common causes: too much salt (human food, salty kibble), 'heat', ear infections that stimulate tearing, duct blockage, entropion (inward lashes), dacryoadenitis, and feline herpes (tears plus nasal discharge—watch unvaccinated cats). Genetics play a role too. Cut salty food and see a vet to find the true cause.
How to Supplement Vitamin B for Your Cat
Vitamin B deficiency in cats frequently appears as skin trouble—especially ringworm—along with a dull coat, weight loss, and loss of appetite, and in serious cases it can progress to eye and nerve problems. Because cats cannot store or synthesize enough B vitamins on their own, daily diet matters. This guide covers the warning signs of deficiency, why human B supplements are a poor fit for cats, and safe ways to meet their needs: B-rich cat food, small amounts of fruit, thorough drying after baths, regular disinfection of bedding and surroundings, and sunlight to help keep skin healthy.
Can a Cat Die from a Cold?
A cat's cold is usually not fatal if it stays mild, but ignoring it—letting a secondary virus take hold or failing to care during an outbreak—can indeed be deadly. Viral and bacterial colds are the dangerous ones; feline herpesvirus (cat flu, or rhinotracheitis) is the common viral form, and stray cats left untreated can die, while house cats should see a vet for targeted treatment. Later signs include thick nasal discharge, weeping or cloudy eyes, conjunctivitis, constant sneezing and cough, lost appetite, and low spirits. Prevention centers on vaccination against herpesvirus (though vaccines aren't 100% effective) plus disinfecting the environment, since the virus survives about 24 hours. Keep a sick cat warm—the virus replicates better at low temperatures.
What to Do When Your Cat’s Eye Is Swollen
A swollen cat eye usually comes from a play-related bump or scratch, a stray foreign object, an insect bite or sting, or inflammation such as conjunctivitis. Gentle cleaning with saline and a cat-specific eye drop often helps mild cases, while a suspected bee sting (with a venom-bearing stinger) or viral conjunctivitis from cat flu needs veterinary care. Keeping your cat's paws clean also prevents further infection.
What causes tear stains in cats?
Cat tear stains can arise from diet (too salty or greasy food), genetics (flat-faced breeds with blocked tear ducts), or eye diseases like conjunctivitis and ingrown lashes. Proper treatment depends on identifying the specific underlying cause.
What eye drops should I use for a cat with inflamed eyes?
Feline eye inflammation has many causes — common ones are conjunctivitis, keratitis, and corneal ulcers. For simple conjunctivitis, use drops with levofloxacin or neomycin sulfate; for keratitis or corneal ulcers, use drops that aid corneal healing plus proper treatment.
What does it mean when the corner of a cat’s eye is black?
Black eye corners are often dried discharge or pigmentation; clean promptly, and see a vet if other symptoms appear.
What to Do When Your Cat Sneezes
Cats, like people, sneeze and cough when they have a cold, but sneezing alone does not confirm a cold.