If you’ve noticed your cat squinting one eye more than the other, it might look cute—but it could be a sign of discomfort or a deeper issue. Whether it’s constant or comes and goes, your cat’s squint could point to anything from dust in the eye to a more serious infection.
In this article, we’ll explain why cats squint, what it means when only one eye is affected, how to check for common problems, when to call the vet, and what you can do at home. Plus, if your cat’s discomfort is affecting behavior—like spraying or hiding—we’ll show you how to resolve it naturally.
Is It Normal for a Cat to Squint One Eye?
No, consistent squinting in one eye is not normal and typically indicates pain, irritation, or injury. A healthy cat’s eyes should be open equally, alert, and free of discharge. Even subtle squinting can be a symptom of an eye condition or general illness, especially if it appears suddenly.
Cats often squint or blink rapidly when in pain, even if the rest of their body language seems calm.
Common Causes of Cat Squinting One Eye
There are several reasons your cat may be squinting just one eye. Some are minor and easily treated, while others require a vet’s intervention.
1. Foreign Body or Irritation
Dust, hair, pollen, or a tiny object can get stuck in your cat’s eye, causing squinting and discomfort. Your cat might paw at their face or blink rapidly. If it doesn’t resolve in a few hours, it may require a flush or removal by a vet.
2. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
This common eye infection causes redness, swelling, and discharge. While it often affects both eyes, it may start in one. Your cat may squint, blink frequently, or have a watery or goopy eye.
3. Corneal Ulcer or Scratch
A scratch or ulcer on the cornea (the eye’s surface) is very painful and typically leads to squinting in one eye. These injuries can happen during play, fights, or from rubbing the eye too hard.
4. Upper Respiratory Infection
Many viral infections in cats (like feline herpesvirus) cause eye inflammation. Squinting may accompany sneezing, nasal discharge, or lethargy. Kittens and shelter cats are especially vulnerable.
5. Glaucoma or Increased Eye Pressure
Glaucoma is a serious condition where eye pressure rises and causes intense pain. One eye may bulge, appear cloudy, or have a bluish tint. Immediate veterinary care is essential to prevent blindness.
6. Entropion (Eyelid Rolling Inward)
Some cats (especially certain breeds) may have eyelids that roll inward, causing lashes to rub against the eye. This leads to squinting, tearing, and potential ulcers if left untreated.
7. Dry Eye or Tear Gland Issues
Insufficient tear production leads to irritation and squinting. You might also notice a sticky film on the eye or a dull appearance to the cornea.
8. Eye Trauma or Bite Wounds
If your cat recently fought or fell, they could have sustained trauma near or around the eye. Swelling, bruising, or pawing at the face may follow.
If your cat’s squinting is causing them to feel vulnerable, stressed, or territorial, you may also see behavior changes like spraying or hiding.
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How to Examine Your Cat’s Eye at Home
You can do a gentle home inspection to help determine the cause. Here’s how:
1. Find a Calm Space
Choose a quiet room with soft lighting. Wrap your cat in a towel if needed to prevent sudden movement.
2. Look for Signs of Irritation
Check for:
- Redness or swelling
- Discharge (clear, yellow, or green)
- Cloudiness or color changes
- Visible scratches or debris
3. Note Behavior
Is your cat pawing at their face, rubbing against furniture, or keeping one eye shut? These are strong signs of discomfort.
If you see anything unusual or if squinting lasts more than 24 hours, schedule a vet visit.
When to Call the Vet for a Squinting Eye
Seek veterinary help immediately if:
- The eye is completely closed or swollen shut
- There’s thick yellow or green discharge
- The eye is bulging or looks cloudy
- Your cat is lethargic, not eating, or hiding
- Squinting has lasted more than 1–2 days without improvement
Don’t wait too long—eye conditions can worsen quickly and may lead to permanent damage if untreated.
Vet Diagnosis and Treatment
Your vet may use tools like a fluorescein stain (a dye that highlights scratches) or measure intraocular pressure. Based on the findings, treatment could include:
- Eye drops or ointments (antibiotic, antiviral, or steroid-based)
- Pain relief medication
- Eye flush to remove debris
- Elizabethan collar to prevent scratching
- Surgery for conditions like entropion or severe ulcers
Always follow the full course of treatment, even if the eye seems better after a few days.
Can You Treat a Squinting Eye at Home?
Only mild, short-term irritation should be treated at home—and never without caution.
Safe at-home tips:
- Use saline solution (NOT contact lens solution) to gently rinse the eye
- Keep your cat indoors to prevent further exposure to allergens or fights
- Monitor for changes in appearance, discharge, or behavior
Never use human eye drops or leftover pet medications. Some ingredients are toxic to cats or inappropriate for the condition.
Breeds Prone to Eye Issues
Some cat breeds are more likely to develop eye problems that lead to squinting, including:
- Persians and Himalayans (flat-faced breeds prone to tear overflow and entropion)
- Burmese and Siamese (more susceptible to glaucoma or viral infections)
- Ragdolls and Scottish Folds (sensitive to irritants or trauma)
If you own one of these breeds, regular eye monitoring and cleaning may help prevent squinting episodes.
Behavioral Side Effects of Eye Pain
Cats in pain often show subtle changes in behavior—like hiding, becoming irritable, or even spraying due to territorial insecurity.
If your cat is showing signs of stress or marking territory while squinting or recovering from an eye condition, you’re not just dealing with a medical issue—it’s also emotional.
Cat Spray No More offers powerful, natural tools to stop spraying, ease anxiety, and give your cat confidence again—especially after illness or discomfort.
Preventing Future Eye Issues in Cats
Once your cat recovers, you can take steps to reduce the chances of squinting and eye infections in the future:
- Keep litter boxes clean to avoid dust
- Trim surrounding fur gently if it irritates the eyes
- Avoid letting your cat roam unsupervised (risk of fights/injury)
- Use gentle, fragrance-free cleaning products near your cat’s space
- Wash your hands before touching your cat’s face if you’ve handled chemicals or allergens
If your cat is prone to allergies or has a history of viral infections, your vet may suggest preventive supplements or regular checkups.
Final Thoughts
While a cat squinting one eye may seem minor, it often signals discomfort, injury, or infection. Quick action can prevent long-term issues—and spare your cat unnecessary pain. Monitor closely, examine gently, and don’t hesitate to involve your vet if the squinting lasts more than a day or is paired with other symptoms.
And if your cat’s eye issues are leading to stress behaviors like spraying or hiding, there’s a calm and effective path forward.
Click here to try Cat Spray No More—your go-to solution for a cleaner home, a calmer cat, and a stronger bond between you and your feline friend.