Why is my cat’s one eye closed?

Answered by Ricardo McCardle

There could be several reasons why your cat’s one eye is closed. One possibility is that your cat may have an eye infection, also known as conjunctivitis, which can cause inflammation, itching, and discharge. Eye infections in cats can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or even fungi. It is important to take your cat to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Another possible cause for your cat’s closed eye could be something irritating in their environment. Cats can be sensitive to smoke, dust, sand, wind, and chemicals, which can cause their eyes to become irritated and swollen. If you suspect that something in your cat’s environment is causing the eye irritation, try to remove or minimize exposure to the irritant.

Allergic reactions can also cause severe swelling around the eyes in cats. Just like humans, cats can be allergic to various substances such as pollen, certain foods, or even certain medications. If your cat’s eye is closed due to an allergic reaction, you may notice other signs of allergy such as sneezing, coughing, or skin rash. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to identify the allergen and provide appropriate treatment.

Glaucoma, which is increased pressure in the eye, can also be a potential cause for your cat’s closed eye. Glaucoma can be a serious condition that can lead to vision loss if left untreated. In addition to a closed eye, other signs of glaucoma in cats may include redness, cloudiness, and dilated pupils. If you suspect that your cat may have glaucoma, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately.

In my personal experience, I once had a cat whose eye became closed due to an eye infection. I noticed that her eye was red and there was some discharge coming out of it. I took her to the vet, and she was diagnosed with conjunctivitis. The vet prescribed medication, and with proper treatment, her eye healed within a week.

To summarize, a cat’s one eye may be closed due to various reasons such as an eye infection, something irritating in the environment, allergic reactions, or glaucoma. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.