Skin around eye

[kiues]

Hello, my cat has had this problem around her left eye for about a week and a half now, I applied eye drops with Tobramycin and dexamethasone and it seemed to do the job even tho we weren’t sure it was anything to do with the eye. Seen it get worse, brought her to the vet, did the fluorescein test, nothing with the eye. They gave me Meloxicam syrup for the inflammation and told me to use it for about 10 days. Second day in and the eye got worse, and even more wet now (probably was washing herself I presume). I wonder if it could be a fungal infection? They said it can’t be and took a sample but the microscope supposedly didn’t show anything. I will attach some files with the evolution of the eye and I am looking forward to some opinions and help. Thank you very much!

 

[neely]

Welcome to TCS! Health issues concerning the eyes should be taken seriously and you were wise to bring her to the vet. However, it could be an underlying problem that is causing the inflammation in which case you may want to consider bringing her to a veterinary ophthalmologist since it has been getting worse. In the meantime, here's a TCS Article that discusses eye problems in cats that may have some helpful information for you: Eye Problems In Cats: What Every Owner Needs To Know - TheCatSite
Best of luck, please keep us updated.

 

[FeebysOwner]

Hi. It sounds like your vet has tried pretty well to resolve this, but I agree with the above poster that it might be time to consult with an ophthalmologist. They may have some additional testing that the vet isn't aware of that exists, and/or doesn't have the equipment for. An internal med vet might be another option as they will likely do more in-depth analysis than a regular vet based on other conditions that can affect the eyes, but not actually be the eye itself. Oftentimes, both of these types of specialty vets may be in a group practice that would enable them to consult with each other. Your vet might be willing to contact one and/or the other and share the test results with them, which could reduce the overall costs.

It could be as simple as the tobramycin and dexamethasone not having been given long enough to clear it up, since it seems like it helped at least for a while.

 

[silent meowlook]

Hi. I also agree time for a specialist. Please read all the information available for meloxicam as well as the warnings snd prescribing guidelines.

Is your cat wearing a cone to prevent him from scratching the eye? If not he must. There will be no improvement until he is no longer allowed to run it on things or scratch it. I am sure it itches.

Change all food and water dishes to porcelain or stainless steel and wash well daily.

Was it looking better with the eye drops? If so, ask for more of those but make sure they can be used since he has been on the meloxicam.

It looks sore and painful. It does appear to be more skin involved than the eye, but still see a specialist or I fear you may be dealing with this a while.

Is he indoor only?