Cats, just like humans, are susceptible to eye injuries, especially in the event of a collision or trauma. If you notice that your cat’s eyes have turned completely white after an accident, it could be a sign of a severe injury that requires immediate attention. Here’s what you should do in such a situation.
Recognizing the Symptoms
A complete whitening of the eyes, also known as “leukocoria,” is an abnormal condition that could indicate a range of eye injuries. Other symptoms you might observe include redness, swelling, discharge, squinting, or your cat pawing at its eyes. If you witness any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to act quickly.
Taking Immediate Action
- Calm Your Cat: First and foremost, try to calm your cat and prevent it from further injuring its eyes. This may require gently wrapping it in a blanket or towel to restrict its movement.
- Prevent Further Injury: If your cat has been in a collision, ensure that the area is safe and free from any debris or sharp objects that could further damage the eyes.
- Seek Veterinary Care: Immediately contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital. Explain the situation and ask for advice on how to proceed.
Veterinary Evaluation and Treatment
Your veterinarian will perform a thorough evaluation of your cat’s eyes to determine the extent of the injury. This may include a visual inspection, the use of a special light to examine the internal structures of the eye, and possibly blood tests or imaging scans.
Based on the diagnosis, your veterinarian may recommend one or more treatment options. These could include:
- Medication: Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to treat infection or reduce swelling.
- Eye Drops or Ointments: Specific medications in the form of eye drops or ointments may be applied to the eyes to promote healing.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged eye structures or remove foreign objects.
Aftercare and Prevention
Once your cat has received treatment, it’s important to follow your veterinarian’s advice for aftercare. This may include administering medications, administering eye drops or ointments, and monitoring your cat’s progress.
To prevent similar injuries in the future, consider taking the following steps:
- Keep your cat’s environment safe and free from hazards that could cause eye injuries.
- Supervise your cat’s playtime with other animals to ensure no fights or accidents occur.
- Regularly check your cat’s eyes for any abnormalities or changes in color.
Remember, the sooner you act after noticing an eye injury in your cat, the better the chances of a successful recovery. Don’t hesitate to seek veterinary care if you suspect your cat has sustained an eye injury.
