Cat Dry Eye
Dry Eye, also known as Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca or KCS, occurs when your cat cannot produce enough tears to keep its eyes moist. Cats of all ages and breeds are susceptible to Dry Eye. While the cause of Dry Eye in cats is not fully understood, it may be the result of a foreign object in the eye, an adverse reaction to medication, or as a side effect of Feline Herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1). If left untreated, Dry Eye will eventually cause scratching of the cornea, which can result in severe pain or even blindness.
Cat Dry Eye Symptoms
While the most common symptom of Dry Eye is a yellow-green discharge from the corner of the eye, other signs that your cat may be suffering from KCS include:
- Red membranes around the perimeter of the eye
- Sensitivity to light
- Eyelid spasms
- Pawing at the face
- Frequent scratches to the eye
Cat Dry Eye Treatment
There are medicinal and surgical options to treat Dry Eye. Drops such as artificial tears or Optimmune and/or topical eye antibiotics prescribed by your veterinarian can help to lubricate the eye and remove mucus that can damage the cornea. If Dry Eye is a result of herpesvirus, treatment for the virus itself can help to alleviate symptoms. If your cat has a severe case of Dry Eye, surgery may be performed to move its salivary glands closer to the eyes in order to provide additional lubrication.
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