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Question:

Cat squinting with one eye

Something weird just happened with my cat, Luna, and I'm kind of freaking out here. Earlier today, around mid-morning, I noticed she’s squinting with her right eye and it looks like it's bothering her. She's been pawing at it a bit and rubbing against furniture more than usual. I checked to see if there's something in there, but I couldn't find anything obvious. I'm worried because she’s normally such a playful little thing, chasing her favorite toy mouse all over the place, but now she seems a bit off, like maybe she’s in discomfort? It’s been a few hours now and it hasn't improved. Has anyone else dealt with this? Should I be taking her to the vet ASAP or wait it out a bit? I’d appreciate any advice!

Answer:

I completely understand why you're worried about your cat squinting with one eye. Cats often squint due to minor irritants, like dust or a small scratch, but it can also indicate something more serious. Common causes include a foreign object in the eye, an eye infection, or an injury. If your cat's eye is red, watery, or there's any discharge, these are signs that the eye is irritated or infected.



For some at-home care, you can gently wipe the eye area with a soft, damp cloth to remove any debris. Make sure your cat avoids scratching the eye, as this can worsen the problem. Just keep an eye on it (pun intended) to see if the squinting improves over a day or two.



However, there are symptoms that require more immediate attention. If your cat seems to be in pain, if the eye looks cloudy or swollen, or if the squinting persists beyond 24-48 hours, these could be signs of a more significant issue, like a corneal ulcer or serious infection, requiring professional care.



Booking a video consult with Dial A Vet can help determine the cause and the best course of action. Rest assured, we're here to help!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 30, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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