Causes of Feline Glaucoma

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in cats and dogs.  Glaucoma occurs when the eye becomes inflamed and obstructs the outflow of fluid from the eye.  As the pressure increases to dangerous levels; glaucoma can permanently destroy the optic nerve, retina, and other vital parts of the eye.  If left untreated, glaucoma can eventually lead to blindness.

Feline glaucoma is classified by three types; congenital, primary, and secondary.  Congenital glaucoma is caused by developmental malformations of the eye. 

Primary glaucoma occurs when there is no sign of defects, injuries, or trauma in the eye that could cause increased pressure.  Primary glaucoma may be a result of heredity and usually develops in both eyes.

Secondary glaucoma is generally a result of cataracts, eye surgery, inflammatory conditions, lens disorders, trauma, or a tumor inside the eye.  Penetration by a foreign object also falls under this category.  Secondary glaucoma is the most commonly seen type of glaucoma.