Ask the Experts: When Should I Call My Vet About My Cat’s Eyes? | Creature Comforts Veterinary Hospital
With the change of seasons, cats can experience more eye irritations, allergies, and infections. This makes it the perfect time to review when you should call your vet about your cat’s eyes—especially for sensitive breeds like Devon Rex, Sphynx, and Lykoi.
Eye concerns are one of the most common questions cat owners ask, particularly among guardians of these breeds. Understanding what is normal—and when to involve a veterinarian—is essential.
Expert Veterinary Insight
To provide clarity, we asked Dr. Stanley at Creature Comforts Veterinary Hospital in Columbia, SC for guidance:
“There are many problems that can affect a cat’s eye. Some heal quickly and others need long-term management.”
So how do you know when to seek professional care?
The Simple Answer
Any time you’re concerned, it’s appropriate to call your veterinarian.
The Full Answer
Some signs are more specific—and some are urgent.
The #1 Sign: Squinting
“The main sign of an eye problem that needs a vet is squinting. Typically, a cat squints its eye only if it is in pain. So if you suddenly notice your cat squinting and it doesn’t go away after a short time, it’s time to call the vet. And if they can’t open their eye at all, it’s an urgent issue that should see a vet the same day.”
Squinting, especially if persistent, is a clear signal that professional evaluation is needed.
Other Eye Symptoms That Warrant a Vet Visit
Excessive or Worsening Discharge
“There are other things that can be a sign of a problem. Worsening mucous from the eyes or excessive tear production can also be a sign of a problem.”
Watch for:
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Thick or mucus-like discharge
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Yellow, green, or cloudy fluid
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Sudden increase in tear production
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Crusting that returns quickly after cleaning
These may indicate infection, inflammation, or blocked tear ducts.
Redness or “Pink Eye”
“Similarly, extra redness of the conjunctiva (the pink part of the eye) can indicate that they have pink eye.”
Persistent redness, swelling, or irritation should be evaluated to determine the underlying cause.
Sudden Vision Changes or Abnormal Pupils (URGENT)
“Lastly, if your cat suddenly seems to have a problem seeing or if their pupils get huge and won’t shrink down with a bright light, they need a vet. Sometimes cats can get bleeding in their retinas (the photoreceptors on the back of the eye) from high blood pressure. This can cause permanent blindness if not addressed promptly.”
Eye Rubbing and Self-Trauma
Cats often rub their eyes when uncomfortable.
“Last thought: cats are like children. They rub their eyes when they’re itchy or uncomfortable. If you see this, consider using an Elizabethan collar (e-collar/the-cone-of-shame) to prevent additional problems from self-trauma.”
An e-collar can prevent further injury until veterinary care is provided.
Breed-Specific Context: Devon Rex, Sphynx, and Lykoi
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Devon Rex: Occasional mild tearing may occur due to facial structure, but chronic discharge, squinting, or discomfort is not normal.
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Sphynx: Environmental or dietary sensitivities (like common protein sensitivities) can contribute to tearing. Ongoing symptoms require evaluation.
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Lykoi: Temporary sensitivity-related tearing may occur, but persistent or worsening eye issues are not typical.
Ethical breeders monitor eye health closely. Persistent issues in a line may indicate the need for reevaluation of breeding practices.
Final Expert Takeaway
“Any time something about your cat’s eyes concerns you, it’s always appropriate to call your veterinarian.”
Early evaluation protects comfort, vision, and long-term health—especially in kittens and breeds with known sensitivities like Devon Rex, Sphynx, and Lykoi cats & many more breeds.
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always seek guidance from your veterinarian for your pet’s specific health needs.
Please visit our breed specific pages to learn more about the breeds we offer: Sphynx, Devon Rex, & Lykoi.