A corneal ulcer is one of the most common — and most underestimated — eye emergencies in cats. The cornea is the crystal-clear front layer of the eye; once it's scratched, infected, or chemically irritated, an ulcer can form and worsen within 24–48 hours if left untreated, sometimes threatening vision or even the eye itself.
🔍 Warning signs to watch for • Persistent squinting or blinking • Watery discharge, or yellow/green pus-like discharge • Red, swollen, or visibly cloudy cornea (often a bluish-white haze) • Pawing at the face or sensitivity to light • In deeper ulcers, a visible dent or white plaque on the eye surface
🩺 Common causes • Trauma — cat fights, scratch from grass or a branch • Eyelash disorders (distichia) or rolled-in eyelids (entropion) • Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) — a very common trigger • Dry eye (KCS), chemical irritation, or a foreign body stuck under the lid
⚠️ Why you shouldn't wait A cat's cornea is incredibly thin. A deep ulcer can perforate rapidly, leaking the eye's internal contents and requiring emergency surgery — or, in the worst case, enucleation (eye removal). If you spot any of the signs above, book a vet visit the same day.
✅ How vets diagnose & treat it
Full ophthalmic exam + fluorescein stain test to map ulcer depth
Targeted medication: antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, or repair drops
Severe cases referred for surgery (corneal graft / conjunctival flap)
An Elizabethan collar to stop your cat rubbing and making it worse
👀 Everyday prevention tips • Check your cat's eyes weekly for discharge or colour changes • Remove sharp plants and hazards from the home • In multi-cat households, separate feeding stations to cut down on fights • Keep FHV-1 vaccinations up to date
🏥 SPK Animal Hospital 📍 Hong Kong | Experienced vet team | Cat-friendly clinic 📞 Book an appointment if you have any concerns
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* Disclaimer
The content in this pet owner handbook is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every pet’s health situation is unique and requires individual assessment by a qualified veterinarian. If you have concerns about your pet’s health or behavior, please consult a registered veterinary surgeon licensed with the Veterinary Surgeons Board of Hong Kong. In case of emergency, contact your veterinarian or nearest veterinary clinic immediately.