Follicular conjunctivitis in cats is not a very common disease, but it is important to know about it in order to know what measures to take, whether preventive or curative in the case that there are already symptoms.
But our furry friends don't usually express their pain or discomfort until they can't stand it anymore, so it will be up to us to check on them daily. Below, I'll explain what this condition is and how it's treated.
What is it?
It consists of the formation of lymphoid follicles in the conjunctiva , which can be caused by diseases transmitted by viruses or bacteria, or it can appear as a reaction to an inflammatory stimulus repeatedly or for a prolonged period of time.
The symptoms that it causes, apart from the redness of an area of ​​the eyeball, are the following:
- Itching, and therefore the need to scratch
- Eye discharge (legañas)
- Discomfort in the affected eye
- Difficulty seeing normally through the diseased eye
How do you make the diagnostic?
If we suspect a problem with our cat's eyes, we should take it to the vet as soon as possible . They will examine it and determine if it has follicular conjunctivitis.
In the event that the diagnosis is confirmed, he will give him the treatment that he considers most appropriate for him.
Which is the treatment?
Treatment usually consists of washing with physiological saline solution , as well as administering topical corticosteroids if necessary to relieve discomfort.
Another option, although it is considered very aggressive for what is being pursued, is the removal of the lymphoid follicles or their gentle scraping with sterile gauze while keeping the animal anesthetized.
Can it be prevented?
Well, not 100%. But there are measures that should be taken to minimize the risks:
- Make sure that the cat is healthy, with its vaccines and giving it a quality diet (without cereals). And take him to the vet as soon as we suspect something is wrong.
- Give him a lot of love and treat him with respect; in this way stress is avoided that can do so much damage to the body.
- Make sure chemicals are out of reach.
Hope it has fit.