Uveitis in Cats: Welfare and Investigation

Feline uveitis causes significant eye pain and risks vision loss. This guide covers welfare impacts, investigation, and management.

Key Facts

Uveitis involves inflammation of the uveal tract (iris, ciliary body, choroid)
Signs include a cloudy or hazy eye, constricted pupil, and light sensitivity
Causes include FIV, FeLV, toxoplasmosis, FIP, and trauma
Uncontrolled uveitis can lead to glaucoma, cataracts, and blindness
Pain relief is a priority alongside treating the underlying cause
Lens-induced uveitis from cataracts is an important cause requiring surgery

Welfare Considerations and Management

Welfare-centred uveitis management prioritises pain relief alongside identifying and treating underlying causes. Topical steroids (prednisolone acetate drops) reduce anterior chamber inflammation. Systemic anti-inflammatories provide additional pain relief. Identifying the underlying cause guides specific treatment — anti-toxoplasma therapy, FIP treatment (GS-441524), or FIV supportive care. Glaucoma monitoring protects the remaining vision. Lens-induced uveitis requires cataract surgery for resolution.

What You Can Do

Seek prompt veterinary assessment for any cat with a cloudy or red eye
Administer topical medications precisely as directed — frequency is important
Monitor for signs of increased intraocular pressure (glaucoma) in affected eyes
Investigate underlying infectious causes that may be treatable