If you’ve ever looked over at your cat and noticed them squinting—especially with just one eye—you may have asked yourself: Is this normal? While cats are expressive and often squint when they’re relaxed or affectionate, frequent or persistent squinting can actually be a sign of discomfort or an underlying health issue.

In this post, we’ll explore the most common reasons why cats squint, the symptoms to watch out for, and what you can do to treat and prevent it.

For a complete, in-depth guide, you can visit my full article here:

👉 https://catcuddlezone.com/why-is-my-cat-squinting/

What Does Squinting in Cats Mean?

Cats may squint their eyes as a form of communication, especially when they’re feeling cozy, relaxed, or loving. However, when squinting becomes more frequent or is accompanied by other symptoms—such as discharge, redness, or pawing at the eye—it may indicate a medical issue.

It’s important to differentiate between a relaxed squint and a pain response.

Common Causes of Cat Squinting

Here are some of the top medical reasons your cat might be squinting:

1. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
2. A common and often contagious condition, conjunctivitis causes inflammation of the eye’s lining. Symptoms include redness, watery or gooey discharge, and squinting.
3. Eye Injuries or Foreign Bodies
4. Cats can easily get dust, grass, or even a claw scratch in their eye. These irritants may lead to squinting and excessive blinking. If untreated, it can lead to infections.
5. Corneal Ulcers
6. These are painful abrasions or sores on the eye’s surface. Signs include squinting, watery eyes, and cloudiness. Corneal ulcers require immediate veterinary care.
7. Uveitis
8. An inflammation inside the eye, uveitis can be caused by trauma, infections, or systemic illnesses. It can be very painful and may result in vision loss if left untreated.
9. Glaucoma
10. This serious condition involves increased pressure in the eye. Symptoms include squinting, cloudy eyes, and dilated pupils. Glaucoma is an emergency situation and requires immediate attention.
11. Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)
12. When tear production decreases, the eye becomes dry and irritated. Cats may squint or show redness. Treatment usually includes artificial tears or eye ointments.

Symptoms to Watch For

While squinting alone can be subtle, pay attention to these additional warning signs:

Redness or swelling

Watery or thick eye discharge

Sensitivity to light

Pawing at the eye

Cloudiness or a change in eye color

Behavioral changes or loss of appetite

Diagnosis and Treatment

A veterinary eye exam may include:

Fluorescein stain tests for ulcers

Tear production tests

Eye pressure testing

Swabs to check for infections

Treatments may include:

Antibiotic or antiviral eye drops

Anti-inflammatory medications

Pain relief

Artificial tears or lubricants

Surgery in severe cases

When to See a Vet

If your cat has been squinting for more than a day or if you notice any of the symptoms listed above, don’t delay. Eye conditions in cats can worsen quickly and may lead to permanent damage if left untreated.

Final Thoughts

Cats may try to hide their pain, but their eyes often give them away. Squinting, though it may look like a sleepy expression, could be your cat’s way of telling you something’s wrong. The sooner you act, the better the outcome.

Want to learn more? I dive deeper into cat eye health, treatments, and home care tips in my full article:

👉 https://catcuddlezone.com/why-is-my-cat-squinting/

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