Causes of Feline Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is the most common eye disease found in the feline population.  Many factors contribute to the cause of conjunctivitis, including allergies, bacterial infections, chemical irritants, injuries, and viral infections.  It can also be the result of birth defects or serious internal diseases. 

Conjunctivitis is very painful and can occur in one or both eyes of a cat.  The most common cause of viral infections leading to conjunctivitis is feline herpesvirus.  Occasionally, herpesvirus can cause an infection in the cornea and cause severe damage to the eye.  Cats under stress are very susceptible to herpes outbreaks.  Herpes causes a lot of redness and a water discharge and often affects only one eye.  When this occurs, the infected cat will have a lopsided squint.  

A conjunctivitis infection causes the conjunctiva to appear red and swollen.  A clear pus-like discharge will be present.  Cats suffering from conjunctivitis can be frequently seen squinting or rubbing their eyes.

Many contributing factors other than feline herpes can lead to feline conjunctivitis including:

• Allergies
• Chemical Irritants
• Chlamydia
• Corneal Ulcers
• Infections
• Scratches