Cats pupils are different sizes after vet visit

Something weird just happened, and I’m hoping someone can help. I took Luna to the vet this morning for her annual check-up, and everything seemed totally normal. Now it’s the afternoon, and I noticed that her pupils are two different sizes. She’s just staring at me a bit more than usual, and I’m kinda freaking out because I don’t know why. Has anyone else experienced this with their cat after a vet visit? I’m not sure if it’s something that will just go away, or if I should call the vet back immediately. Luna’s my first cat, and I just want to make sure I’m not overlooking anything serious. Any advice would be super appreciated!

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Answer

Thanks for reaching out. It's understandable to be worried if your cat's pupils are suddenly different sizes, especially after a vet visit. This condition is known as anisocoria, and there are several possible reasons it could occur.



In some cases, anisocoria in cats might be a temporary reaction to eye drops or medications given during the vet visit. These can cause one eye to respond differently to light than the other. Typically, this effect wears off after a few hours.



However, if your cat displays additional symptoms, such as squinting, redness, a noticeable difference in vision, or if the pupils don’t return to normal within a day, it might indicate a more serious issue like eye trauma, neurological problems, or an underlying systemic condition.



For now, ensure your cat is comfortable and doesn’t have access to bright lights, which can be bothersome. Keep an eye on any changes in behavior or coordination. If you notice things like lethargy, vomiting, or disorientation alongside the unequal pupils, it's important to get in touch with a veterinarian as soon as possible.



I recommend booking a video consult with Dial A Vet so we can discuss your kitty's specific situation more thoroughly.

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Disclaimer: The customer and expert messages presented herein may have been altered with artificial intelligence or modified to enhance readability and safeguard the privacy of individuals. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately. Talk to a vet now.

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