Possible Cause of Cloudy Eyes in a Feline

Keeping your cat healthy requires constant vigilance over all aspects of its health. This includes the animal's vision. Recognizing early signs of injury and disease, such as cloudy eyes, can help identify potential problems while there's still time to prevent vision loss. Talk to your veterinarian about the possible cause of cloudy eyes in a feline if you have concerns about your cat or need a diagnosis.

  1. Cataracts

    • Cats, like people, can develop cataracts, one of the primary causes of cloudy eyes. According to Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine, this eye disease typically occurs in cats that have conditions such as diabetes or hypertension, injuries that damage the eye lens or problems metabolizing important chemicals and proteins. If caught early, medication can slow the progression of the disease. In later stages, lens implantation surgery may be necessary to prevent vision loss.

    Glaucoma

    • Cloudy eyes in a feline sometimes results from glaucoma. Feline glaucoma occurs when fluid builds behind the lens of a cat's eye or eyes. Pressure builds behind the eye if the fluid cannot drain, leading to nerve damage and possible blindness. In some cats, genetics play apart in the onset of glaucoma; in others, the condition is a result of inflammation, infection or injury. There is no cure for feline glaucoma. Treatment involves medication or removal of the cat's eyes.

    Feline Infectious Peritonitis

    • Feline infectious peritonitis, or FIP, is a mutation of the feline enteric coronavirus. Once a cat develops FIV, the disease leads to various health problems and eventually death. Cloudy eyes is a symptom associated with the dry form of FIP. In addition, a cat with FIP may become listless, have seizures, vomit or lose weight.

    Considerations

    • Clouding in a cat's eyes is a serious problem that should not be overlooked. It can indicate specific diseases such as glaucoma or cataracts, or it can occur as a result of injury or infection. Without treatment and a proper diagnosis, it may lead to vision loss and other serious problems for your cat. Watch for other signs that may indicate underlying health problems: squinting, pupil dilation, an uneven appearance of the eyes, lethargy and unexplained or sudden clumsiness.