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My barn cat's eye is red and swollen. Is it an infection or injury?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Feral | Female | unspayed

Eye problem for my barn cat.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on February 7th, 2020

Hi, and thanks for your question.
That is likely to be due to a mild to moderate conjunctivitis, probably secondary to a trauma or infection. A check up would be needed as appropriate treatment would include antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops. Corneal injuries must be ruled out as well.
Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Rebecca, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 13th, 2017
If the swelling is going away on its own I would just continue to monitor. It likely was an insect bite or sting. If you notice any squinting of his eye, pain or the swelling recurs then a vet visit may be needed.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jenny, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 3rd, 2017
Her eye looks clear from the picture but the eyelid is red and seems a bit swollen. If she is holding her eye open and it is not red in the inside she may have irritation leading to an infection on her eyelids as a result of a bite or scratching it. It is best to get her treated so it does not spread to her eye
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 6th, 2018
Hello, sorry to hear about Ruby. It does seem that she could have some irritation and inflammation of her eye lids. This could be from rough playing with your other cat or this could be some form of infection.

If her eye lids are not improving within 1-2 days or if she develops any ocular or nasal discharge then you should contact your veterinarian to have her evaluated. Hope this helps and best of luck.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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