Glaucoma in cats: causes and treatment particularities
10-year-old domestic shorthair cat with chronic uveitis in the left eye for months. The eye now looks slightly larger with a dilated pupil, although the cat is eating and behaving normally. Intraocular pressure: 38 mmHg.
Which statement about feline glaucoma is correct?
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A. It is usually secondary to chronic uveitis or neoplasia, progresses insidiously, and prostaglandin analogues barely lower pressure in cats
Correct. Most feline glaucomas are secondary, mainly to chronic lymphoplasmacytic uveitis and neoplasia (diffuse iris melanoma, lymphoma). Cats show little pain and latanoprost has little effect; topical carbonic anhydrase inhibitors are used.
B. It is almost always primary angle-closure, as in the Cocker Spaniel
Primary glaucoma is rare in cats (described in Burmese and Siamese). Secondary glaucoma is the norm.
C. It always causes severe pain and a very red eye, so it is diagnosed early
In cats signs are usually subtle: mydriasis, buphthalmos or iris colour change, often detected late when the eye is already blind.
D. Oral methazolamide is the treatment of choice in cats because it is very well tolerated
Oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors are poorly tolerated in cats (anorexia, vomiting, metabolic acidosis); topical ones are preferred.
lightbulb Key takeaway
Routinely measure pressure in every cat with chronic uveitis: secondary glaucoma is silent. In a blind glaucomatous feline eye, especially if neoplasia is suspected, enucleation with histopathology is the treatment of choice.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.