Injuries to the Cornea in cats
Injuries to the cornea in cats are damages to the transparent, anterior layer of the eye, which protects the eye and through which light enters the eye. These injuries can range from superficial scratches to deeper cuts or ulcers that can seriously impair vision and eye health.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
Basics and possible causes
The cornea is a sensitive structure consisting of several layers, including the epithelium, Bowman’s membrane, the stroma, Descemet’s membrane, and the endothelium. Each of these layers can be affected by injuries, with superficial injuries usually affecting the epithelium, while deeper injuries can also include the stroma or Descemet’s membrane. The cornea plays an important role in protecting the eye from mechanical damage, infections, and dehydration. It also helps to focus light on the lens, thus affecting vision.
Injuries to the cornea can be caused by a variety of factors. Mechanical influences, such as scratches from cat fights, contact with sharp objects or foreign bodies, are common causes. Chemical irritations from detergents, plants, or other substances can also damage the cornea. Eye diseases such as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye) or infections caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi can also lead to corneal damage. In addition, anatomical problems, such as an inward-turned eyelid (entropion), can constantly irritate the eye and thus promote injuries.
It is important to identify the underlying cause of a corneal injury, as this affects the treatment and prognosis. In many cases, a combination of mechanical and biological factors is responsible, which can make diagnosis and therapy complex. Early detection and treatment are crucial to avoid serious complications.
Typical accompanying symptoms
- Eye tearing: One of the first reactions of the eye to a corneal injury is an increased production of tear fluid to rinse and protect the irritated area.
- Light sensitivity: Cats with corneal injuries tend to squint or close their eyes, especially in bright light, as this causes pain.
- Redness: Increased blood flow to the conjunctiva can lead to a significant redness of the eye.
- Swelling of the eye: Swelling of the cornea or surrounding tissues can occur, making the eye appear swollen and uneven.
- Altered eye color: A corneal injury can lead to clouding or discoloration of the cornea, making the eye appear milky.
- Behavioral changes: Cats may withdraw, appear irritated, or anxious if they have pain in the eye.
- Purulent discharge: In the case of a bacterial infection, a yellowish or green purulent discharge may come from the eye.
When to visit the vet?
A visit to the veterinarian is urgently required if you notice that your cat shows signs of a corneal injury. Even if the symptoms appear mild, an untreated corneal injury can quickly lead to serious complications, including infections, permanent damage, or even loss of the eye.
If your cat is squinting, has excessive tearing, or shows behavioral changes, you should not hesitate to see a veterinarian. Immediate veterinary help is also necessary for visible injuries or discoloration of the cornea. The faster the treatment is given, the better the chances of restoring full function to the eye.
The veterinarian can assess the severity of the injury, identify the underlying causes, and initiate appropriate therapy to promote healing and prevent further damage.
Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures
As a pet owner, you can recognize the first signs of a corneal injury by carefully observing your cat’s symptoms. Pay attention to changes in eye color, tearing, light sensitivity, or behavioral changes. However, a thorough examination of the eye can only be performed by a veterinarian.
The veterinarian will perform a comprehensive eye examination to determine the type and extent of the injury. This may include the use of a special fluorescein stain, which is applied to the cornea to make injuries visible. The stain adheres to damaged areas and glows under UV light, which facilitates diagnosis.
In addition, the veterinarian can examine the eye with an ophthalmoscope to check the internal structures of the eye. If an infection is suspected, a bacterial or viral culture can be created to determine the appropriate antibiotics or antiviral medications. In some cases, further diagnostic tests may be necessary to identify the underlying cause of the corneal injury.
What can pet owners do and professional therapy options
If you suspect that your cat has a corneal injury, you should take immediate action to avoid further damage. Avoid touching or rubbing the eye, and prevent your cat from scratching itself. A protective collar can help protect the eye from further injury.
Make sure your cat stays in a quiet, stress-free environment to avoid unnecessary movement and excitement. Keep the environment clean to minimize the risk of infection. Remove potentially dangerous objects from your cat’s reach that could further damage the eye.
Do not give any medications or eye drops without the veterinarian’s instructions, as this could worsen the situation or complicate the diagnosis. Once you have been to the vet, follow the instructions carefully and administer all prescribed medications as directed to aid healing and prevent complications.
Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.