Corneal ulcer in cats
Also known as Eye ulcer, Ulcerative keratitis.
A wound on the clear surface of the eye. It is very painful and, if it becomes infected or deep, it can perforate the eye within a few days.
A closed, painful eye needs a vet visit the same day.
- System
- Eyes
- Is it urgent?
- Usually
- Spreads to other cats
- No
- Spreads to people
- No
- Typical cost in Spain
- Consultation and treatment, €60–150; surgery, €400–1,200.
Symptoms
- Eye closed or squinting
- Heavy tearing
- Cloudy cornea or a spot on it
- Rubs the eye
- Red eye
Causes
Herpesvirus, scratches from fights, foreign bodies, misplaced eyelashes or eyelids and the prominent eyes of flat-faced cats.
How it is diagnosed
Fluorescein staining, which turns the damaged area green.
Treatment
Antibiotic and pain-relieving eye drops, a cone collar and, for deep ulcers or those that will not heal, surgery.
No doses, on purpose: any medicine must be prescribed by your vet for your cat.
Prognosis
Good if treated early; deep ulcers can leave a scar or need surgery.
Prevention
Have any closed eye checked promptly. In Persians and Exotics, clean the eyes every day.
Breeds at higher risk
It is described more often in these breeds. That does not mean all of their cats will have it, nor that a moggy is free of it.
Frequently asked questions
Is corneal ulcer contagious?
No. It does not spread to other cats or to people.
Can corneal ulcer be cured?
Good if treated early; deep ulcers can leave a scar or need surgery. Antibiotic and pain-relieving eye drops, a cone collar and, for deep ulcers or those that will not heal, surgery.
How much does it cost to treat corneal ulcer?
As a guide for Spain in 2026: Consultation and treatment, €60–150; surgery, €400–1,200. Prices vary a lot between clinics and cities, and out-of-hours emergencies cost more.
Which breeds are most at risk?
It is described more often in Persian, Exotic Shorthair and Himalayan. That does not mean every cat of those breeds will have it, nor that a moggy is free of it.
More in eyes
Educational content from Michipedia. It does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a vet: if you have any doubt about your cat's health, ask. Costs are a guide for Spain in 2026.