Symptoms, Causes & Natural Remedies

Conjunctivitis – also known as pink eye – is a common eye condition in cats. It is characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva, a thin membrane that covers the front of the eye and the inside of the eyelid. Conjunctivitis can be caused by a variety of factors such as infections, allergies, and irritants. In this guide, we’ll discuss the symptoms, causes, and natural treatments for conjunctivitis in cats.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of conjunctivitis in cats can vary depending on the underlying cause. Some common signs of conjunctivitis include:

• Redness or swelling of the eye
• Discharge from the eye
• Squinting or blinking more than usual
• Cloudiness or opacity of the eye
• Sensitivity to light
• Rubbing or pawing at the eye
• Excessive tearing

Causes:

Conjunctivitis in cats can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Viral and bacterial infections: Feline herpesvirus and Chlamydia felis are common viral and bacterial causes of conjunctivitis in cats.
• Allergies: Environmental allergens such as pollen, dust, and mold can cause conjunctivitis in cats.
• Irritants: Chemical irritants such as cleaning products, smoke, and perfume can cause conjunctivitis in cats.
• Trauma: Injury to the eye can cause conjunctivitis in cats.
• Immune-mediated diseases: Conditions such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) can lead to conjunctivitis in cats.

Natural Treatments:

There are several natural treatments that can be used to help manage conjunctivitis in cats. These include:

• Oxy-Cat: Cleaning your cats eyes with this remedy and adding it to the daily meals can help kick mild to severe conjunctivitis in cats quickly.
• Warm compresses: Applying a warm compress to the affected eye can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Soak a clean cloth in warm water and hold it against the eye for 5-10 minutes.
• Chamomile tea: Chamomile tea can help soothe inflamed eyes. Brew a cup of chamomile tea, let it cool, and then use it to rinse your cat’s eye.
• L-lysine: L-lysine is an amino acid that has been shown to help reduce the severity and frequency of feline herpesvirus outbreaks. It can be given to cats as a supplement or added to their food.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the eyes. They can be added to your cat’s diet in the form of marine oil supplements.
• Aloe vera: Aloe vera gel can be applied topically to the affected eye to help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Conclusion:

Conjunctivitis is a common eye condition in cats that can be caused by a variety of factors. If you notice any signs of conjunctivitis in your cat, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. There are several natural treatments that can be used to help  conjunctivitis in cats. By working with your integrative veterinarian and using these natural treatments, you can help your cat recover from conjunctivitis and maintain good eye health.