My 19-year-old cat has suddenly gone blind, eyes look cloudy. Is there something urgent I need to do?

This morning, I noticed that my 19-year-old cat seems to have suddenly gone blind, and her eyes appear cloudy. She's been moving around quite cautiously and bumping into things around the house. Given her age, I'm really concerned about what might be causing this. Is there something urgent I need to do or check for in this situation?

Answer

It sounds like your cat may have experienced sudden blindness with cloudy eyes, and this can be alarming, especially at her advanced age. There are several potential causes for this condition that should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

  • Cloudy eyes in cats can be caused by cataracts, glaucoma, or other eye diseases.
  • Sudden blindness can result from high blood pressure, retinal detachment, or neurological issues.
  • Immediate veterinary attention is recommended to diagnose the cause and prevent further distress for your cat.

Given the age of your cat and the sudden onset of blindness, it's important to have her seen by a vet as soon as possible. In some cases, prompt treatment might help manage or even reverse the situation. Your vet will be able to perform an eye examination and potentially recommend treatments to alleviate any discomfort your cat might be experiencing. If this condition developed suddenly, there might be an underlying health issue requiring urgent attention.

Book a consultation with a licensed vet at Dial A Vet for just $49 AUD if you're unsure or symptoms are getting worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What should I do if my cat suddenly goes blind?

    If your cat suddenly loses vision, it's essential to contact a veterinarian immediately. Sudden blindness can be a symptom of an underlying health issue that may need urgent care.

  • Can cloudy eyes in cats be treated?

    Treatment options for cloudy eyes depend on the underlying cause. Some conditions like cataracts or certain infections may be manageable, so an early diagnosis is vital.

  • How can I help my blind cat at home?

    To make your home safe for a blind cat, keep the layout consistent, use scent markers, and keep her food, water, and litter box in the same, easily accessible locations.

If this is an emergency, please seek immediate veterinary care.

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