Quick answer: Why is my cat’s eye cloudy? A cloudy eye can be a sign of inflammation inside the eye, a problem with the surface of the eye or another eye disease. Some of these conditions are painful and can threaten vision, so a cloudy eye should be examined by a veterinarian soon. To organize what you are seeing, you can start with our Pet Symptom Checker, which covers cats and dogs.
What a Cloudy Eye Can Look Like
A cloudy eye may look hazy, bluish, white or dull. Check whether one or both eyes are affected, whether your cat squints, whether the eye is red (see why a cat’s eye may be red) and whether the pupil looks uneven. VCA Animal Hospitals explains in its page on uveitis in cats that inflammation inside the eye can make the eye look cloudy and is often painful.
When to Call the Vet Right Away
Before any home care, know what should not wait. VCA’s guidance on recognizing signs of illness in cats lists eye abnormalities among the signs that need prompt attention. Call your veterinarian right away if your cat:
- suddenly has a cloudy eye or the cloudiness is getting worse;
- squints, keeps the eye closed or paws at it;
- has a red, swollen or bulging eye;
- bumps into things or seems to see less;
- has discharge, an injury, or is also not eating or hiding (see not eating and hiding).
VCA says uveitis can lead to glaucoma or blindness if it is not treated, which is why waiting is risky.
Possible Causes
Only a veterinarian can find the cause. Per VCA, uveitis can be linked to infections, injury, or disease elsewhere in the body, and in some cats no cause is found. Other eye conditions can also cause cloudiness, so an eye exam with the right tools is needed to tell them apart. VCA’s page on conjunctivitis in cats also reminds owners that cats with eye signs should be examined by a veterinarian.
Cats of any age can have eye problems, and older cats may develop changes that need a vet check. See our guide to senior cats. For dogs, read why a dog’s eye is cloudy.
What You Can Do While You Arrange Care
- Do not use human eye drops or any home remedy in the eye.
- Prevent rubbing. Ask your vet about a protective collar.
- Keep your cat in a calm, safe room with the litter box, food and water close by.
- Take a clear photo of both eyes in good light and note when you first saw the change.
What the Veterinarian May Do
Your vet will examine the eye and may check eye pressure and the inside of the eye. Treatment depends on the cause and may include eye medication and treatment of any underlying disease. Follow every instruction and attend rechecks.
How the Pet Symptom Checker Can Help
Our Pet Symptom Checker helps you look up symptoms in cats and dogs and see common reasons and warning signs. It does not diagnose and does not replace a veterinarian, but it can help you describe the problem clearly. Regular visits also help, see why vet check-ups matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a cloudy eye in a cat an emergency?
It can be. Sudden cloudiness, pain or redness needs a prompt vet visit because some eye conditions can threaten vision.
Can a cloudy eye go away on its own?
Do not count on it. The cause has to be found by a vet.
Does a cloudy eye mean my cat is blind?
Not necessarily, but vision can be at risk. Only an exam can tell.
Can I clean the eye at home?
Do not use eye products unless your vet says so.
Final Thoughts
A cloudy eye is a reason to call your veterinarian soon. Early care gives your cat the best chance to keep comfortable and keep their vision.
This article is for general education only. It does not diagnose any condition and does not replace advice from your veterinarian.
Sidnir Vieira is the founder of TechHavela. A lifelong pet owner who had a dog for many years and now lives with a cat, he writes educational guides that help owners understand symptoms and know when to call the vet. TechHavela’s articles are based on veterinary sources and are not reviewed by a veterinarian.
