What pink or red around the eye usually means
Pink or red skin and tissue around a cat’s eye is most commonly a sign of conjunctivitis, often called pink eye. But redness is a general sign of irritation, and several other eye conditions can look similar. Since some of those can threaten vision, a pink or red eye is best checked by a vet rather than treated by guesswork.
What is conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin pink membrane that lines the eyelids and covers the white of the eye. When it is inflamed, the eye can look red and swollen and may produce discharge. In cats it is common and can be painful. It is also sometimes contagious between cats, depending on the cause.
Signs to look for
- Redness or swelling of the eyelid lining or the white of the eye
- Watery, clear, or thick yellow-green discharge
- Squinting, blinking a lot, or keeping the eye partly closed
- Rubbing or pawing at the face
- Sneezing or runny nose if an upper respiratory infection is also present (see cat cold)
Your cat does not need all of these for it to be a concern.
Causes
- Viral infection: Feline herpesvirus is a leading cause and can flare up repeatedly, often at stressful times.
- Bacterial infection: Organisms such as Chlamydophila felis and Mycoplasma are among those associated with cat conjunctivitis. Bacteria can also take advantage when an eye is already inflamed.
- Irritants and allergies: Dust, pollen, smoke, mold, and some household products may irritate the eyes.
- Injury or foreign material: A scratch or debris under the eyelid.
Other causes of a red or pink eye
Redness is not always conjunctivitis. Corneal ulcers, dry eye, blocked tear ducts, inflammation inside the eye, and glaucoma can also make an eye look red. These can be painful and, in some cases, sight-threatening, which is why a vet exam matters.
Third eyelid showing
Cats have a third eyelid that normally sits mostly out of view in the inner corner of the eye. When it becomes visible, it is a general sign that something may be wrong. It can occur with eye irritation, pain, illness, or weight loss, and sometimes in both eyes when a cat is unwell. If it stays visible for more than a short time, or appears with other symptoms, arrange a veterinary check.
Will a swollen eye heal on its own?
Some mild irritation may settle, but it is difficult for an owner to tell which swollen eyes will do so. Infections and injuries can worsen without treatment, and waiting risks pain or lasting damage. A swollen, red, or closed eye should be seen by a vet, and urgently if it came on suddenly or looks painful.
Sore eye: signs of pain
Squinting, holding the eye closed, sensitivity to light, tearing, and pawing at the eye suggest discomfort. Cloudiness or a change in pupil size alongside these signs makes prompt care more important.
How vets diagnose and treat
A vet will examine the eye and may use stain to check for ulcers or test tear production. Treatment depends on the cause and may include antiviral or antibiotic medication, eye drops or ointment, or other measures. Drops are often given several times a day at first. Do not use human eye drops or leftover medication, as these can be harmful or delay proper treatment.
Contagion and home care
If your cat has infectious conjunctivitis, other cats in the home could be at risk. Wash your hands after handling, keep bedding and bowls clean, and ask your vet whether to separate cats. You can gently wipe away crust around the eye with a clean damp cloth or pad, using a fresh one for each eye. Reducing dust and smoke and keeping stress low may also help. See cat eye discharge color guide for what discharge may suggest.