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What are these brown spots in my cat's eye? Are they serious?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed

My cat has brown patches in one eye. She appears well and healthy but I'm concerned. She has been this way for several months

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 22nd, 2019

It is not uncommon for cats to develop brown or black spots on the iris. A pigmented area on the iris can be benign or malignant, and differentiating them is sometimes difficult.

My guess is that these spots are what we call iris nevus. These are benign (like freckles). Since she has so many, this would be called iris melanosis. Iris melanosis is classified as benign, but in time, it may progress to a malignant melanoma. Although melanomas are rare in cats, the eye is the most common site for it to show up. The first hint that this could be melanoma is rapid growth. If you know the spot(s) is getting larger quickly, that is a warning sign. If the shape of the pupil has become deformed as it dilates and constricts, that is another potential red flag.

I suggest you have Dixie examined by your vet to get a diagnosis. She needs a thorough exam with a ophthalmoscope.

Hope this helps. Best wishes.

5Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Davis
Veterinarian
Published on December 31st, 2017
That change could be due to an injury. Her eyes look clear and normal but I would bring her in for an exam next week to double check. Changes in the eye pigment can be caused also by infection or cancer. They will look into the eye and may recommend a blood panel and blood pressure check. Hopefully it is nothing to be concerned about. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Cissy.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jenny, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on December 27th, 2017
They appear to be on the cornea and they be pigmentation if there is chronic rubbing form the eye lids to that spot. They can also have fat or mineral or calcium deposits on the cornea. These are non pathologic and cause not harm to the eyes or to him. The only way to know for sure which type they are is to have your vet exam them in person. If you notice any eye discharge or he is holding his eyes closed, then I would be concerned that there is an ulcer or an infection present.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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