I don’t know what’s going on, but earlier today I noticed our two cats have different sized pupils, and I’m starting to freak out a bit. It’s like one eye is dilated, and the other is normal—this happened after breakfast. I haven’t changed their food or anything and they seem to be their usual playful selves otherwise. But it’s been a few hours now, and I’m just not sure if I should be worried or if they’ll just sort themselves out. I’ve got some vet tech background, so I’m racking my brain trying to remember if I learned about this somewhere. Any thoughts on why this is happening? Should I rush them to the vet, or keep an eye on it for now?
Appreciate the question — let's unpack this. Anisocoria, or having pupils of different sizes, can definitely be concerning when it occurs in pets. In cats and dogs, it can happen for several benign reasons, such as uneven lighting or a mild injury that caused temporary irritation. However, it can also be a sign of something more serious, like trauma, neurological issues, or even certain infections.
As a vet tech, you likely know that keeping an eye on other symptoms is key. If your pet is showing signs like changes in behavior, appetite loss, or coordination issues, it's important to take these seriously. Also, be on the lookout for symptoms like drooping eyelids, excessive tearing, or noticeable discomfort, as these can indicate more serious conditions.
At home, ensure your pet is comfortable and try to reduce any stressors that might exacerbate the condition. Make sure their living area is safe and that they don’t have access to anything that might further injure their eyes.
If the anisocoria persists or occurs frequently, it's definitely worth booking a video consult with a vet through Dial A Vet. A professional can evaluate whether further diagnostics or treatments are necessary.
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