Why Is My Cat Squinting One Eye? 8 Reasons & What to Do

If you've ever noticed your cat squinting with one eye, you might be wondering what's going on. Cats can't communicate in words, but their body language can reveal a lot. When a cat squints or keeps one eye half-closed, it's a clear sign that something is amiss with their eye. This article explores the most common reasons behind a cat squinting one eye and what you can do about it.

The 8 Reasons for Why My Cat is Squinting One Eye

Cats squint with one eye for various reasons, and in most cases, it's a sign of eye discomfort or pain. While there can be multiple causes for this behavior, it's essential to recognize that almost all of these conditions require veterinary attention.

Blepharospasm

Blepharospasm refers to the involuntary closure of the eyelids, leading to squinting. This condition usually begins with rapid blinking and may progress to complete eyelid closure. It's an indication that something is wrong with the eye or eyelid, often due to an infection or injury. Painful conditions can affect the nerve endings in the cornea and conjunctival membranes, resulting in blepharospasm.

Cat Trauma

Squinting in one eye is frequently caused by trauma. This can occur in outdoor cats but is not limited to them, as indoor cats can also experience injuries. Cat trauma may result from fights with other cats, encounters with wildlife, or accidental collisions with furniture or fencing. Alongside squinting, you might observe eye discharge, redness, swelling of the tissues around the eye, and the visibility of the cat's third eyelid. If you suspect your cat's eye has been damaged, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian promptly to prevent potential infections or vision loss.

Cat Eye Infection

Eye infections are another common cause of one-eye squinting in cats. These infections are typically of viral (e.g., "cat flu"), bacterial, or mixed origin. Viral infections can be transmitted from other cats or introduced into the household through contaminated objects like clothing or shoes. Stress or illness can also reactivate dormant viruses, such as herpesvirus. Symptoms of an infected eye mirror those seen in traumatic cases, including discharge, redness, swelling, and possible obstruction of the third eyelid. If you suspect an eye infection in your cat, it's advisable to seek veterinary care.

Infections of the Upper Respiratory Tract

Collectively known as influenza, cat flu, or viral rhinitis, these viral upper respiratory tract diseases are often complicated by bacterial infections. While viral infections are self-limiting, bacteria like Bordetella bronchiseptica, Chlamydophila felis, and Mycoplasma can lead to more severe illnesses. These infections can induce symptoms such as conjunctivitis, eye discharges, and squinting. Feline viral rhinotracheitis caused by feline herpesvirus I swells the eyelids and results in watery discharges that may turn pus-like. Feline calicivirus shares similar symptoms, while feline pneumonitis caused by Chlamydophila felis also manifests in inflamed eyes and discharges.

Foreign Body in the Eye

Squinting in one eye may also occur if a foreign object becomes lodged in the eye. These foreign bodies can include thorns, cat claws, or grass awns. Sometimes these objects are visible in the eye, but they can also be concealed beneath the eyelids. A cat with a foreign body in its eye will typically experience significant pain, often leading to reluctance to open the eye. Swelling around the eye and varying degrees of eye discharge are common symptoms. It's crucial to treat this as an emergency, as delaying treatment can result in severe pain and potentially permanent eye damage.

Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca refers to chronic inflammation of the cornea and surrounding conjunctival tissues due to persistent dryness, typically resulting from reduced tear production. Tears play a vital role in removing debris and preventing eye infections. When tear production is insufficient, cats experience constant eye irritation and may squint. This condition can occur due to immune-mediated damage to tear-producing glands or herpesvirus infection.

Cat Entropion

Entropion is a condition in which one of the eyelids, usually the lower one, rolls inward. This leads to painful friction between the skin and the eye's surface, which can result in eye damage and infections. Entropion can occur in cats of any age, causing significant discomfort and excessive eye discharge. Veterinary intervention is typically required to correct this condition surgically.

Cat Uveitis

Uveitis is the inflammation of the eye's internal front part, situated between the cornea and iris. This condition can cause cloudiness in the eye, sediment buildup (red in the case of bleeding or white/yellow in case of infection), and, occasionally, watery eyes. Squinting may also occur, though it doesn't always lead to discharge. If you suspect your cat has uveitis, consulting a veterinarian is essential.

What To Do When the Cat Is Squinting One Eye?

The eye is a delicate organ, and only a trained veterinarian can conduct a comprehensive eye examination. When you notice your cat squinting in one or both eyes, it's crucial to schedule a veterinary visit without delay. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are vital. Attempting to forcibly open the cat's eyelids at home can worsen the injury. In some cases, your cat might require sedation or pain relief before examination, particularly in traumatic injury scenarios. Avoid administering over-the-counter human pain medications as they can be toxic to cats.

Home Care

At home, you can take certain measures to ease your cat's discomfort before the vet visit. Place an Elizabeth collar on your cat to prevent further self-trauma to the irritated eye. Create a comfortable environment by reducing bright lights or relocating your cat to a dimly lit room. Since eye inflammation may be contagious, isolate your cat from other feline household members. Ensure proper home care, which includes gently wiping away eye discharges with a warm damp cloth, starting from the inner corner near the nose and moving outward to clear debris. If there are dried-up discharges, you can apply a sterile pad soaked in cold water to soothe the irritation. In cases of chemical irritants, flush the eyes with artificial tears. Avoid using tweezers on the eyes; if you need to remove a foreign object, do so gently with a cotton swab.

Home Feeding

Sick cats may lose their appetite but require nourishment to support their immune system. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on home-feeding techniques for ill cats.

Prevention of Eye Problems

Vaccination plays a crucial role in protecting your cat from respiratory viruses such as feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus. To prevent traumatic eye injuries, remove objects with sharp edges that could be seen as toys, secure items like needles, and tightly seal trash cans. Proper nutrition contributes to a strong immune system that can fend off infections. Regular grooming for cats with protruding eyes or long fur can help prevent eye irritation. Periodic health checkups are essential to detect early signs of eye issues, even though cats are experts at hiding their discomfort. Early intervention significantly aids in managing eye conditions and preserving your cat's vision.

Conclusion

While watery eyes in cats are typically not life-threatening, they can be extremely painful and require immediate attention. Certain injuries may jeopardize your cat's vision or even necessitate the removal of the affected eye. Swift and appropriate treatment offers your cat the best chance of maintaining their eyesight and ensures their comfort during the healing process.