In some cases the underlying cause of the blindness will be reversible and normal vision may return, but in many cases (even if the primary problem can be controlled) damage like retinal detachment is non reversible and blindness is permanent. Blindness or partial blindness is not uncommon in cats.
Because Blind Quiet Eye directly affects the cat's vision, it may display several signs, including:
- Clumsy behavior (e.g., bumping into objects, tripping, falling)
- Decreased or absent menace response (i.e., does not blink when a hand is waved toward the eyes)
Cats are generally very independent animals, and on the whole cope well with blindness. Most blind cats will continue to lead full and happy lives and can often do nearly all the same things as when they were sighted.
Abnormalities with vision are the most common clinical findings with feline hypertension. These abnormalities can include dilated pupils that do not constrict with light, blood within the chamber of the eye, and blindness. Blindness develops because high blood pressure in the eye causes the retina to detach.
For example, he says, “We can treat a cat's high blood pressure with a drug called amlodipine, which may allow a retina to reattach itself, and the cat can get some of its vision back.” However, he adds, even prompt care by a veterinary ophthalmologist may fail to reverse a case of feline blindness, whether or not its
Signs Your Cat is Nearing End-of-Life
- Loss of Appetite/Thirst. For all animals, illness often culminates in a lack of interest in food or water.
- Extreme Weakness.
- Lower Body Temperature.
- Appearance Changes.
- Hiding.
- Clinginess/Odd Social Behavior.
Blindness in diabetic cats
Cats are sometimes rendered temporarily or permanently blind by severe hypoglycemic episodes. Hypoglycemia can cause severe brain damage and that may include blindness.Blind cats rely on scent and memory to find their way around. Cats use their whiskers to help them feel their way around in narrow spaces, so a blind cat's whiskers should never be trimmed. Block off stairways with baby gates until your cat can navigate them safely. Block off access to windows and balconies.
Conjunctivitis is not the only eye infection your cat can experience. Other eye infections are common ailment in cats. They're often the result of an upper respiratory infection that spreads to the eyes. Signs and symptoms: Rubbing and squinting are common signs that your cat might have an eye infection.
Blind cats begin to rely on their other senses. They might begin to meow more, hoping for sound echoes. They also start to rely on scent and memory. It is also recommended that you don't pick your cat up and move it too often as this can be disorientating and leave the cat wondering where it is!
Signs of glaucoma can include a red or bloodshot eye and/or a cloudy cornea; vision loss is also characteristic of glaucoma. However, loss of vision in one eye is often not obvious because animals compensate with their remaining eye. Eventually, the increased pressure will cause the eye to stretch and become enlarged.
Watch out for any of these symptoms of cataracts in your pet:
- Changes in eye color or changes in pupil size or shape.
- Cloudy pupils in one or both eyes.
- Clumsiness.
- Difficulty seeing in dimly lit areas.
- Reluctance to climb or jump.
- Rubbing or scratching of the eyes.
Dilated Pupils
Dilated (large) pupils are another source of understanding the meaning of cats' mysterious eyes, and often indicate an excited cat. It can also be a display of surprise or fear, depending on the situation. It is not unusual for a cat's pupils to fully dilate when they are really excited.Why cats go blind. One of the most common causes of sudden blindness in an elderly cat is due to high blood pressure (hypertension). The increased pressure pushes the light sensitive layer (retina) away from the back of the eye and this can happen literally overnight.
It is not cruel to allow your pet to function as a blind pet. Blind cats typically are still very happy. They continue to enjoy and remain engaged in life and the world around them—including their humans.
If you are thinking about adopting a cat with Anophthalmia or Microphthalmia (The absence of one or both eyes. Both the eye ball and the ocular tissue are missing from the orbit, or abnormally small eyes) DO IT! It will be life-changing. Anophthalmia and Microphthalmia are quite rare.
Why cats go blind. One of the most common causes of sudden blindness in an elderly cat is due to high blood pressure (hypertension). The increased pressure pushes the light sensitive layer (retina) away from the back of the eye and this can happen literally overnight.
Blind cats typically are still very happy. They continue to enjoy and remain engaged in life and the world around them—including their humans. Kitties do not need to see you to love you.
Scientists have discovered that dogs and cats carry antigens which can prompt different immune responses in humans. While the allergen which dogs carry reduces the chance of developing glaucoma – the second leading cause of blindness in the UK – owning a cat nearly doubles the risk of contracting the eye disease.
Why cats go blind. One of the most common causes of sudden blindness in an elderly cat is due to high blood pressure (hypertension). The increased pressure pushes the light sensitive layer (retina) away from the back of the eye and this can happen literally overnight.
Except for increased thirst and excessive urination, the dog or cat remains relatively healthy. This is called compensated kidney failure. Signs of compensated kidney failure include: Increased thirst, increased urination, increased hunger, intermittent vomiting, minor digestive upsets, and dry skin.
11 Signs Your Cat's Kidneys May Be Failing
- Frequent urinating.
- Drinking a lot of water.
- Bacterial infections of the bladder and kidney.
- Weight loss and decreased appetite.
- Vomiting, diarrhea, and bloody or cloudy urine.
- Mouth ulcers, especially on the gums and tongue.
- Bad breath with an ammonia-like odor.
Feline kidney failure sickens and kills more older cats than any other condition. Because most of its causes are still unknown, prevention is almost impossible. Its symptoms are severe, and with few exceptions, it's incurable and ultimately fatal.
Why cats go blind. One of the most common causes of sudden blindness in an elderly cat is due to high blood pressure (hypertension). The increased pressure pushes the light sensitive layer (retina) away from the back of the eye and this can happen literally overnight.
Eye Problems That Cause Blindness in Cats
- Cataracts. Cataracts, or opacity of the lenses, is rarer in cats than in dogs or people.
- Glaucoma. Glaucoma is indicated by increased pressure within the eye and can lead to blindness in cats.
- Eye Tumors. Cats can develop different types of tumors within or on the surface of the eye.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy.
Commercially available kidney support diets tend to be quite palatable because it is so important for these cats to eat in a way that slows the progression of their CKD. If needed, adding water, tuna juice, or low sodium chicken broth may increase the flavor and acceptance.
Why cats go blind. One of the most common causes of sudden blindness in an elderly cat is due to high blood pressure (hypertension). The increased pressure pushes the light sensitive layer (retina) away from the back of the eye and this can happen literally overnight.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If kidney disease is found, treatments can range from surgery to remove blockages to IV fluids to a special diet and medications. You may also be able to inject fluids under your cat's skin at home. Talk to your vet about the best options.A sudden loss of vision doesn't necessarily mean total blindness. It can occur in one eye or both eyes, and the loss of sight can be partial or total. Sudden blindness may only last a short time, such as a few seconds, minutes or hours. However, it could potentially be permanent, especially if not treated quickly.
