TL;DR: Crusted eyes in cats are typically caused by respiratory infections and require veterinary attention within 24-48 hours to prevent permanent damage or eye loss.
What causes my cat’s eyes to be crusted or matted shut?
When a cat or kitten has eyes that are matted or crusted shut, it is most often due to an Upper Respiratory Infection (URI) or feline conjunctivitis. These conditions cause discharge that, as it dries, acts like a glue sealing the eyelids together. This is frequently seen in kittens because their immune systems are still developing and they are more susceptible to viral and bacterial pathogens.
Is it an emergency if my cat’s eyes are stuck shut?
This condition is classified as a Medium Urgency level. While it is rarely an immediate life-threatening emergency, it requires a veterinary exam within 24 to 48 hours to avoid complications:
- Left untreated, infections can lead to painful corneal ulcers, permanent scarring, or loss of the eye.
- Seek immediate care if your cat is also lethargic, refusing to eat, or having difficulty breathing.
How does sending a photo help my veterinarian triage the eye condition?
Providing a high-quality photo to your veterinarian or triage assistant is incredibly beneficial. A visual allows professionals to:
- Assess the color and thickness of the discharge.
- Observe the level of swelling in the conjunctiva.
- Determine if the eye itself appears cloudy or red.
- Decide how quickly your pet needs to be seen and which diagnostic tests to prepare for.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
In cats and kittens, crusted eyes are frequently associated with infectious diseases such as feline herpesvirus-1, Chlamydia, and Mycoplasma, which commonly present as acute and recurrent conjunctivitis. Cytologic examination of Giemsa-stained conjunctival scrapings can aid in identifying chlamydiae and mycoplasmas. Diagnosis of feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) can be challenging due to intermittent viral shedding and similar seroprevalence in both ill and healthy cats; PCR of ocular, nasal, or caudal pharyngeal secretions can help identify the causative agent. Treatment is primarily symptomatic and supportive, with broad-spectrum antibiotics indicated for secondary bacterial infections.
Chapter: Ophthalmology, Infectious Disease, Dermatology, Immunology
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 505)