Red eyes in cats occur when the tissues of the eye become inflamed. This may be due to minor irritation or a serious eye disease. Because early treatment can prevent pain and protect your cat’s vision, always speak to a vet if you notice redness.

Many eye problems can cause redness. Finding the exact cause and best treatment requires a detailed veterinary examination of the eye. It helps with diagnosis if you can describe any changes you have noticed, such as discharges, cloudiness or bluing of the eye, excessive blinking or holding the eye closed.

What to do if your cat has red eyes

If your cat has red eye(s) but seems comfortable (not pawing, squinting or holding the eye shut):

• Gently clean the eye(s) using boiled, cooled water with a clean cotton pad 2-3 times per day. 

• Monitor closely for a few hours. 

• If there’s no improvement or new signs appear, contact a vet as soon as possible. 

Why does your cat have red eyes?

Redness in a cat’s eye can result from a wide range of problems, from mild irritation to serious disease. Common causes include:

• Conjunctivitis (pink eye): inflammation of the tissues around the eye, often linked to infection, irritants or trauma

• Allergies or irritants: dust, smoke, strong cleaning products, airborne particles

• Corneal ulcer: scratches or surface injury, often from fights or foreign bodies

• Uveitis: inflammation inside the eye, sometimes linked to viruses (FIV, FeLV, FIP) or other systemic illnesses

• Glaucoma: increased pressure inside the eye, painful and vision-threatening

• High blood pressure (hypertension): especially in older cats, can cause bleeding and redness

• Eye injury or trauma: scratches, bites or foreign bodies

• Tumours or growths: affecting the eye or surrounding tissues

When do you need to see a vet if your cat has red eyes?

Contact a vet immediately if your cat has red eyes plus:

• Sudden, severe bloodshot appearance

• Squinting or inability to open the eye

• Pawing at the face, signs of pain or lethargy

• Cloudy or bluish eye

• Blood inside the eye

• Bulging eye(s)

• Sudden loss of vision
  

Joii can help with advice and support:

• If you are concerned that your cat’s eyes look different to usual

• If you need help applying or giving medication

How to prevent red eyes in your cat

It’s not always possible to prevent red eye conditions, but you can reduce risks:

• Seek early vet advice if you notice squinting, discharge, or bloodshot eyes.

• Vaccinate your cat: protects against cat flu viruses that commonly cause conjunctivitis.

• Good eye hygiene: gently wipe away discharge with damp cotton pads and keep long hair around the eyes trimmed in long-haired breeds.

• Creating and maintaining a safe environment: minimise risk of fights by neutering kittens;  introduce new pets slowly; reduce access to thorny plants or dusty/dirty areas.

• Attention to indoor safety: keep harmful chemicals, smoke and sprays away from your cat.

• Scheduling regular vet checks: especially for older cats at risk of high blood pressure or other underlying illnesses.

What to look out for in a cat with red eyes

If you suspect your cat’s eyes look different, swollen or they look uncomfortable speak to a vet immediately. 

In the meantime look out for:

• Pawing at the face

• Squinting or inability to open the eye

• Bloodshot eye

• Eye discharge

• Cloudy eye

• Reduced vision

How to look after your cat with red eyes

After your vet has examined your cat, follow their advice closely. Key measures include:

• Keep the buster collar on at all times to prevent further injury.

• Give or apply all medications as prescribed by your vet, at the correct time and dose.

• Follow your vet's advice for any updates or follow-up appointments.

• Monitor for any eye discharge and prevent build-up with regular gentle cleansing.

• Watch for difficulty or inability to fully blink.

• Keep your cat indoors until fully recovered.

Vet treatments for red eyes in cats

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Your vet may recommend:

Prescription medications (eye drops or tablets):

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections

• Anti-inflammatory medicines to reduce pain and swelling

• Antiviral drops or oral medication in some cases of cat flu

• Lubricants or tear stimulants for dry eye

• Medicines to lower eye pressure if glaucoma is diagnosed

Surgery (in certain cases):

• Correcting eyelid problems (like entropion)

• Repairing or protecting the cornea if there is a severe ulcer

• Removal of tumours or severely damaged eyes when vision cannot be saved

Are some cats more at risk of having red eyes than others?

Some cats are more prone to red eyes due to their anatomy or health:

• Brachycephalic (flat-faced breeds) including Persians, Himalayans, and Exotic Shorthairs: large, prominent eyes are more exposed to injury, irritation, and tear drainage problems.

• Older cats: more likely to suffer from high blood pressure or systemic disease that can affect the eyes.

• Cats with chronic viral infections (such as feline herpesvirus): repeated conjunctivitis flare-ups are common.

• Long-haired cats: fur around the eyes can cause irritation if not kept trimmed.