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Oculares

Conjunctivitis

Inflammation of the conjunctiva (the membrane that lines the eye and the inside of the eyelid). Very common. It is usually mild, but it can be a sign of something more serious.

MildDogsCatsRabbits

Mizuu editorial teamupdated on October 14, 2026Not yet reviewed by a vet. Are you a vet? Review itReport an error

Reference sources: ESCCAP España · WSAVA · LeishVet · Manual MSD de Veterinaria

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Reddened eye
  • • Watering or discharge (clear or purulent)
  • • Swollen eyelids
  • • The animal squints or rubs the eye
  • • Ocular discomfort or itching

Causes

Many causes: infections (common in cats due to herpesvirus), allergies, a foreign body, irritants, blocked tear ducts, or secondary to another eye disease.

Diagnosis

Eye examination. The vet may stain the cornea to rule out ulcers and measure tear production.

Treatment

Depends on the cause: antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eye drops, removal of foreign bodies, treatment of the allergy. NEVER use human eye drops without prescription — some make certain injuries worse.

Prevention

Eye hygiene, avoiding irritants, vaccination (in cats), and treating allergies.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if the eye is red for more than 1-2 days, there is pus or evident pain, or the animal keeps the eye closed. Ruling out a corneal ulcer is important.

Consult a vet

This guide points you in the right direction and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Mizuu accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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Conjunctivitis in pets: symptoms, causes and treatment