Are Cat Eye Infections Contagious?
My name is Dr. Abdul Basit Javed (DVM, RVMP) and I’m a veterinarian, so will be advising you on your cat’s eye infection, its causes, and possible treatment options.
Are cat eye infections contagious? Since some eye infections are contagious to other cats, pets, and humans I will explain what you need to know in detail.
Cat eye infections are usually caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Some cat eye infections like conjunctivitis are contagious and can spread to other cats, humans, and other pets. Transmission of these infections is mostly via direct contact with eye secretions or shared objects. Viral and bacterial infections pose risks.
In this article, I talk about common eye infections in cats and whether they are contagious to other felines and humans.
I also explain the various causes of infection in cats along with its symptoms, treatment, and much more.
Are Cat Eye Infections Contagious?
Eyes are one of the most sensitive body parts we have and the same is true for cats.
Many organisms such as bacteria, viruses, and others can infect a cat’s eyes directly or indirectly resulting in severe infections.
Cat eye infections can range from being mild and self-limiting to being very severe, sometimes even leading to permanent vision loss or serious eye complications such as:
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Lens Problems
Some cat eye infections are contagious but not all of them.
Since many organisms causing eye infections in cats are species-specific they might not be contagious to humans or dogs but can be highly contagious to other felines.
Some cross-specific contagious eye infections in cats include:
- Feline Herpes Eye Infection
- Bacterial Conjunctivitis
- Fungal Eye Problems
Feline eye infections that are highly contagious among cats include:
- Feline Herpesvirus Type-1 infection (also known as Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis)
- Feline Calicivirus Infection
- Chlamydophila
- Mycoplasma
Any cat can suffer from eye infections but older cats and kittens are most prone due to compromised and weak immune systems (source 1).
What Kind Of Eye Infections Can Cats Get?
Below are the most common cat eye infections. Some of these cat eye infections are highly contagious to other cats.
1. Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)
Cats have a mucous membrane called the conjunctiva that lines their eyelids and eyeballs (the white part of the eye). Inflammation of the eye’s conjunctiva is called conjunctivitis.
Cats can have acute conjunctivitis, a short-term, painful condition.
Clinical signs of pink eye in cats can range from mild redness to serious diseases such as conjunctival inflammation which can cause:
- Swelling
- Frequent Blinking
- Squinting
- Inability to fully open and close the eye
These conditions may or may not be accompanied by mucus, blood, or clear fluid.
Along with your cat’s eye problems, you may notice upper respiratory infection symptoms including:
- Sneezing
- Clear or Thick Nasal Mucus
- Decreased Appetite
- Low Energy Levels
The causes of Feline Conjunctivitis infections include:
Feline herpesvirus
Feline herpesvirus is a primary cause of conjunctivitis, particularly chronic or repeated instances.
The virus hides in the neurological system and activates under stress or disease. Here are some signals that your Maine Coon Cat Is Stressed.
Since this group of viruses is specific to a species FHV-1 it is non contagious to humans and dogs. Close interaction with other cats makes it highly contagious.
Calicivirus
Calicivirus is mostly shedded in the nose, eye, as well as mouth secretions, however, other body fluids contain it also.
Its symptoms include:
- Eye discharge
- Clogged tear ducts
- Nasal discharge
It spreads through close touch among cats and not all cats recover as some remain permanent carriers.
Bacterial conjunctivitis
Cats suffering from viral conjunctivitis often get bacterial infections. Although less common than viral conjunctivitis, bacteria may constitute the main culprit.
The most frequent pathogens are (source 1,2):
- Chlamydophila Felis
- Mycoplasma
- Staphylococcus
- Streptococcus
- Bartonella
- Pseudomonas Species
2. Mycoplasma
Every cat’s eye contains mycoplasma which is a bacterium occurring naturally and results in infection whenever the cat is under stress or suffering viral infections.
This bacterium has vertical transmission, where a cat passes the disease on to his offspring and also spreads directly from infected cats via saliva, gingiva, or claws through scratching or biting during a fight.
Its insect vectors include:
- Ear Mites
- Fleas
- Ticks
- Mosquitoes
Through these three ways (saliva, gingiva, and claws), mycoplasma can infect cats eventually reaching their eyes.
Its eye symptoms include (sources 1):
- Mucoid eye discharge
- Irritation
- Inflammation of the sclera and cornea, sometimes resulting in corneal ulcers
3. Chlamydophila
Cats affected by the bacterium Chlamydophila felis initially produce a discharge from their eyes that is watery in consistency and quickly thickens. This discharge is typically yellow or green.
Since the eyes are so painful, cats frequently close their affected eyes or eyes.
The majority of cats continue to be active and appear normal in all other respects; however, some of them might catch a fever or experience a decrease in appetite.
During the first couple of days, your cat can also experience sneezing and sniffling allowing viruses to move to the lungs of kittens, which can result in lethal pneumonia.
Chlamydial conjunctivitis has various causes and cats may have many infections, making diagnosis challenging.
A conjunctival membrane swab can be sent to a lab for culture and identification (source 1).
4. Allergic Conjunctivitis
Eye membranes end up being red and puffy when allergic conjunctivitis affects cats.
In most cases the cats suffering from conjunctivitis will have discharge from their eyes that is hazy (whitish), yellow, or greenish; they will blink or squint a great deal.
In addition, they will have redness along with swelling around their eyes.
Discharge that appears transparent or whitish is more likely the result of allergies or debris in the lens of the cat’s eye. Though it is not always the case, both eyes are typically afflicted.
In some cases, other symptoms may be observed, including but not limited to (sources 1):
- Itching
- Absence of hair around the pupils
- Nasal discharge
- Sneezing
- Coughing
5. Blastomycosis Eye Infection
Blastomyces dermatitidis is a fungus infecting cats.
Inhalation of infected spores is the main way this soil-dwelling fungus causes infection.
The fungus can also potentially cause disease by infecting a skin wound of your cat.
If Blastomyces dermatitidis spreads throughout the body, it might damage the eyes as without treatment this illness can cause uveitis, glaucoma, and ultimately blindness.
The illness is treated with antifungals.
Most cases of the disease in North America are found in the:
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Ohio River basins
- Great Lakes
- Manitoba
- Ontario
Cats with feline blastomycosis often have problems with (sources 1):
6. Leishmaniasis Eye Infection
Sand flies spread this parasite which may lead to eye problems in cats.
These include:
- Conjunctivitis
- Uveitis
- Blepharitis
- Keratitis
- Redness
- Edema
- Impaired Vision
The areas of the body most impacted by this disease, are:
- Eyes
- Skin
- Spleen
- Kidneys
- Liver
- Joints
Supportive care, parasite-slowing medication, and eye drops are usual treatments (source 1).
7. Histoplasmosis Eye Infection
This cat eye infection is caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum that travels from the lungs to other organs throughout the body, specifically the eyes.
This fungus is responsible for eye inflammation and problems with vision in cats.
Drugs that inhibit the growth of fungi are utilized in the course of the therapy process.
Cats contract this infection by inhaling fungal spores. These spores develop in the lower airways and cause a local infection later spreading to the eyes (source 1).
8. Thelaziasis
The Thelazia callipaeda eye worm is transmitted by a prevalent fruit fly and there have already been several reported cases of cats getting infected with the disease in European countries including:
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Greece
This infection causes discharge, irritation, and irreversible corneal damage resulting in ocular ulcers and permanent blindness.
Thelazia worms are surgically removed and supportive treatment may also be provided to the infected cat (source 1).
9. Dacryocystitis
This infection affects the tear sacs of cats and is caused by blockages within the tear sacs. It may result in discharge, redness, and swelling in the surroundings of the eyes.
The majority of the time, the treatment involves injecting antibiotics once the obstruction has been eliminated from the duct.
Tear glands produce tears to lubricate as well as safeguard the eyeball from infections.
Partial or minor blockages may lead to eye discomfort and chronic dryness, but they are not life-threatening.
Long-term dry eyes can cause infections and other eye health issues (source 1).
10. Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)
Keratoconjunctivitis is also commonly referred to as dry eye in cats.
This common condition of the eyes in cats is characterized by insufficient tear production by the lacrimal gland and/or the gland of the third eyelid.
Any ailment that impairs the ability of the eye to produce adequate amounts of tear film can be the source of dry eye in cats.
Some of the most typical causes of KCS include immune-mediated diseases, which can cause damage to the glands responsible for producing tears.
Neurogenic KCS nerve damage is the term used to describe an injury to the nerves that stimulate the tear glands as a result of (source 1):
- Eardrum infection
- Trauma
- Other conditions
What Causes Eye Infections In Cats?
The following are the major causes of eye infections in cats:
Bacterial
Several bacteria infect the cat’s eyes.
Some of these bacterial infections such as Mycoplasma, Bartonella, and a few others are highly contagious and can spread to healthy cats, humans, and dogs.
Bacterial causes are usually treated with the help of antibiotic eye ointments and drops.
Viral
Viral eye infections are highly contagious among cats but may not infect other animals or humans since most of them are species-specific.
Some viral infections such as Feline Immunodeficiency Virus and Feline Leukemia Virus may not directly affect the eyes but can cause immune suppression which gives opportunities for bacteria to infect the cat’s eyes.
Viral infections such as Feline Calicivirus and Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis directly affect the eyes and can cause serious complications.
Fungal
Fungal infections mainly spread to cats via spore inhalation and direct contact.
A common fungal eye infection in cats includes Histoplasmosis eye infection, though it cannot be transferred to humans from cats.
Parasitic
Parasites can also cause eye infections in cats such as Thelazia. You can even see these parasites moving in your cat’s eyes in severe infections.
These parasites can cause serious damage to a cat’s eye structures and might result in permanent blindness.
Environmental Agents
Dust and other irritants in the environment might cause eye infections in cats.
Particularly during winter when there is less moisture in the air, a cat’s eyes can become dry increasing the risk of infections.
Chemical Irritants
If your cat gets chemicals such as paint, sprays, disinfection solutions, and others in its eyes accidentally this may result in the development of an infection, if medical care is not provided.
Genetic
Genetic conditions such as dermoids, entropion, corneal sequestrum, ectropion, and a few others can lead to eye infections in cats.
Insect Bites
Venom from the insect bite or sting can cause swelling and irritation in a cat’s eyes, which if neglected, can develop infections.
Insects can also spread bacteria and parasites that cause eye infections in cats.
Injuries
Eye injuries or trauma can lead to infections if the wounds are not treated and necessary medical care is not provided promptly (sources 1,2).
Signs Of Cat Eye Infection
Signs of an eye infection in cats depend on the cause and severity of the condition. However, some typical eye infection signs in cats include the following (source 1,2):
1. Redness
Eye infections can cause redness in the eyes and the surrounding structures such as conjunctiva.
2. Eye Discharge
A common sign of eye infections is ocular discharge. It can be clear or mucus.
Thick yellow or green colored discharge usually indicates bacterial infections while whitish discharge can be due to allergies.
3. Swelling
Eyelids can become swollen and puffy due to infection.
4. Eye Squinting
Due to pain in the eyes, your cat will squint its eyes.
5. Light Sensitivity
Cats with eye infections prefer to hide in dark areas as their eyes become sensitive to light.
6. Corneal Cloudiness
Cloudiness in the eye is a common manifestation of many ocular infections in cats.
7. Pawing At The Face
Cats rubbing their paws on their eyes and face is a usual sign of irritation due to ocular infections.
8. Protrusion Of The Third Eyelid
Sometimes due to infections and irritation, the third eyelid of your cat will protrude out of its eye and may appear as a pinkish mass.
9. Repeated Blinking
Cats that have eye problems will blink and wink repeatedly due to irritation and pain.
Cat Eye Infection Treatment
Treatment generally depends on the cause of the eye infection in cats and may include the following:
Antibiotics
Antibiotic eye drops, ointments, oral meds, and intravenous infusions might be administered by the vet to treat bacterial eye infections in cats or to prevent them.
Anti-Inflammatories
These drugs help alleviate pain and inflammation in the eyes of your cat.
These are also used to treat auto-immune disorders to prevent eye infections.
Flushing
Flushing the cat’s eyes with normal saline can help remove irritants, eye discharge, and debris, providing relief to the cat.
Antifungals
These drugs treat fungal causes of eye infections in cats.
These drugs often have long courses which can last from weeks to months depending on the severity of the eye infection.
Lubricants
Eye lubricants might be administered to remove dryness and irritation in a cat’s eyes especially if it is suffering from keratoconjunctivitis (dry eye) or has blocked lacrimal glands.
Supportive Care
In case of viral eye infections in cats, supportive therapy such as multivitamins and fluids are administered to help support the immune system of the cat and aid in recovery.
Surgery
If the eye infection has resulted in irreversible eye damage or permanent vision loss your vet may decide to remove the eye (enucleation) of the cat to limit its suffering.
Surgery might also be performed to correct eye conditions such as entropion or ectropion which can cause eye infections or to remove eye parasites (sources 1,2,3).
Is A Cat Eye Infection An Emergency?
If you notice the following you must consider it an emergency and rush your cat to the nearest veterinarian before it is too late:
- Your cat is not opening its eyes
- Blood coming out of the cat’s eyes
- Excessive eye discharge
- Cloudiness on the cornea
- A pinkish mass is protruding out of the eye socket
However, if your cat has mild irritation, redness, swelling, or tears coming out of the eye but is eating and drinking normally, then it is not an emergency.
However, consulting a veterinarian is a must to prevent complications.
Conclusion
If your cat has an eye infection you must have thought, are cat eye infections contagious?
Some cat eye infections such as the Feline Calicivirus, Feline Herpesvirus, Mycoplasma, Chlamydophila, and a few others are highly contagious among cats and spread via close contact.
Some cat eye infections can be transferred to humans such as Mycoplasma. Even if they are not contagious proper care and sanitation must be followed.
Symptoms of eye infections in cats are redness, swelling, cloudiness, eye discharge, and others. All eye infections are serious health concerns and must not be neglected.
It is advised to take your cat to the vet if you observe any of the eye infection symptoms mentioned above for accurate diagnosis and treatment, so your cat can live a healthy life.
