The white part of my 14-year-old cat's eyes turned green overnight. What's going on?

This morning I noticed something strange about my 14-year-old cat: the whites of her eyes have turned green. It seems like it happened all of a sudden, and it's worrying me. Is this a common issue with older cats, or should I be taking her to see a vet right away?

Answer

A sudden change in the color of the whites of your cat's eyes could indicate a potentially serious health issue, and it's important to address this quickly. This discoloration is not common and should be assessed by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

  • Green discoloration in a cat's eyes is unusual and potentially serious
  • Could be indicative of liver problems or other health issues
  • Immediate veterinary attention is recommended

This change in the color of your cat’s eyes could be due to a condition called jaundice, where a buildup of a substance called bilirubin turns tissues yellow or green. In older cats, this may be linked to liver issues, infections, or other serious health concerns. It's important to have your cat examined by a veterinarian to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What could cause my cat's eyes to change color suddenly?

    A sudden change in eye color can indicate jaundice, often caused by liver issues, blood disorders, or infections. It's essential to have a vet evaluate your cat to determine the underlying cause.

  • Is jaundice common in older cats?

    While jaundice isn't common, older cats can be more susceptible to the underlying conditions that cause it, such as liver disease or tumors. Prompt veterinary care is necessary for diagnosis and treatment.

  • How urgent is it to see a vet for changes in eye color?

    It's very important to seek veterinary attention as soon as changes in the eye color are noted, as they can be signs of serious health conditions requiring immediate intervention.

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