Corneal and Scleral Lacerations in Cats: A 2025 Veterinary Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment & Care 🐱👁️

By Dr. Duncan Houston, BVSc

Corneal and scleral lacerations are serious ocular injuries in cats that can lead to vision loss or even loss of the eye if not promptly treated. This comprehensive 2025 guide delves into the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of these injuries in felines.

Understanding Corneal and Scleral Lacerations 🧬

The cornea is the transparent outer layer at the front of the eye, while the sclera is the white, tough outer layer that protects the eyeball. Lacerations to these structures can be classified as:

• Penetrating injuries: Wounds that enter but do not completely pass through the cornea or sclera.
• Perforating injuries: Wounds that completely pass through the cornea or sclera, posing a greater risk to vision.
• Simple injuries: Involve only the cornea or sclera without affecting other eye structures.
• Complicated injuries: Involve other eye structures such as the iris, lens, or retina, and may lead to more severe consequences.

Understanding the type and extent of the injury is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment plan.

Recognizing the Symptoms 🔍

Symptoms of corneal and scleral lacerations in cats may include:

• Sudden onset of eye pain: Indicated by pawing at the eye or excessive blinking.
• Swelling and inflammation: Around the eye area.
• Visible blood in the eye: Or a blood-filled mass (subconjunctival hematoma).
• Distorted pupil: Abnormal shape or reaction to light.
• Clouded cornea: Indicating potential cataract formation.
• Protruding eye: Suggesting severe trauma.

These symptoms warrant immediate veterinary attention to prevent further complications.

Diagnosis 🩺

Diagnosing corneal and scleral lacerations involves:

• Comprehensive eye examination: Using specialized instruments to assess the extent of the injury.
• Fluorescein staining: Applying a dye to detect corneal damage.
• Imaging studies: Ultrasound or radiographs to evaluate internal eye structures.
• Assessment of intraocular pressure: To detect any abnormalities.

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment planning.

Treatment Options 💊

Treatment strategies depend on the severity and type of laceration:

• Medical management: For minor injuries, including topical antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and protective collars to prevent self-trauma.
• Surgical intervention: Required for severe or perforating injuries, involving suturing of the laceration, possible lens repair, and addressing any damage to internal eye structures.
• Enucleation: Removal of the eye may be necessary if the injury is irreparable or poses a risk to the cat's overall health.

Postoperative care includes administering prescribed medications and regular follow-up visits to monitor healing.

Prognosis 📈

The prognosis varies based on the injury's severity and promptness of treatment:

• Favorable prognosis: For superficial or promptly treated injuries.
• Guarded prognosis: For deep or complicated lacerations involving multiple eye structures.
• Poor prognosis: For injuries with delayed treatment or extensive damage, potentially leading to vision loss or eye removal.

Early intervention significantly improves the chances of preserving vision and the eye itself.

Preventive Measures 🛡️

Preventing corneal and scleral lacerations involves:

• Supervised outdoor activity: To minimize exposure to hazards like sharp objects or aggressive animals.
• Regular grooming: Keeping claws trimmed to prevent self-inflicted injuries.
• Safe environment: Removing potential dangers from the cat's surroundings.
• Prompt treatment of eye issues: Addressing any eye discomfort or abnormalities immediately.

Implementing these measures can significantly reduce the risk of serious eye injuries.

When to Consult a Veterinarian 👩‍⚕️

Seek immediate veterinary attention if your cat exhibits:

• Sudden eye pain or discomfort
• Visible eye injury or bleeding
• Swelling or inflammation around the eye
• Changes in pupil shape or reaction
• Cloudiness or protrusion of the eye

Timely intervention is crucial to prevent permanent damage or loss of the eye.

Conclusion 📝

Corneal and scleral lacerations are serious conditions that require prompt veterinary care. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and implementing preventive measures are essential steps in ensuring your cat's ocular health and overall well-being.

For personalized advice and support, consider reaching out to veterinary professionals through platforms like Ask A Vet. Their expertise can guide you through diagnosis, treatment options, and ongoing care tailored to your cat's specific needs.

Stay proactive in your cat's health to ensure a happy and healthy life together. 🐾