Progressive retinal atrophy in cats
Also known as PRA, Retinal degeneration.
An inherited disease in which the retina gradually degenerates until the cat goes blind. It is not painful, and cats adapt surprisingly well to their own home.
- System
- Eyes
- Is it urgent?
- Not usually
- Spreads to other cats
- No
- Spreads to people
- No
- Origin
- Inherited
- Typical cost in Spain
- Genetic test, €30–70; ophthalmology consultation, €80–150.
Symptoms
- Clumsiness in low light, at first
- Dilated pupils
- More noticeable eye shine
- Bumps into things in new places
- Complete blindness over the years
Causes
Known mutations: rdAc (Abyssinian, Somali, Siamese and Orientals), PRA-b in the Bengal and an early-onset form in the Persian.
How it is diagnosed
Eye fundus examination and genetic testing.
Treatment
There is no treatment. The home is adapted: do not move furniture, and secure balconies and stairs.
No doses, on purpose: any medicine must be prescribed by your vet for your cat.
Prognosis
The blindness is irreversible, but quality of life is usually good.
Prevention
Genetic testing of breeding cats.
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 progressive retinal atrophy contagious?
No. It does not spread to other cats or to people.
Can progressive retinal atrophy be cured?
The blindness is irreversible, but quality of life is usually good. There is no treatment. The home is adapted: do not move furniture, and secure balconies and stairs.
How much does it cost to treat progressive retinal atrophy?
As a guide for Spain in 2026: Genetic test, €30–70; ophthalmology consultation, €80–150. 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 Abyssinian, Somali, Siamese, Oriental Shorthair, Balinese, Bengal and Persian. 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.