# A Squinting Eye in Cats Demands Veterinary Attention
When a cat squints one eye, owners must schedule a veterinary exam immediately. This behavior signals pain or disease and never indicates a minor problem.
Several serious conditions cause squinting in cats. Corneal ulcers rank among the most common culprits. These painful abrasions develop from scratches, foreign objects, or infections. Feline herpesvirus also triggers squinting alongside discharge and conjunctivitis. Uveitis, inflammation inside the eye, produces squinting and light sensitivity. Glaucoma causes elevated eye pressure and requires emergency treatment to prevent permanent blindness.
Less severe but still important causes include allergies, dry eye syndrome, and eyelid abnormalities. Even these conditions worsen without proper diagnosis and treatment.
Cat owners should watch for additional signs. Excessive tearing, redness, discharge, pawing at the eye, and keeping the eye closed all accompany squinting. Any combination demands immediate veterinary action.
Early intervention prevents serious complications. Untreated corneal ulcers can perforate the eye. Glaucoma progresses quickly to irreversible vision loss. A veterinarian performs an eye exam using specialized equipment to identify the underlying problem and recommend appropriate treatment, which might include topical medication, antibiotics, or surgical intervention depending on the diagnosis.