Hyphaema in cats: ocular treatment and drugs to avoid
15-year-old female cat with chronic kidney disease and hyphaema in the right eye. Systolic blood pressure is 210 mmHg and intraocular pressure is 14 mmHg. Amlodipine has already been started.
Which ocular treatment is most appropriate?
chevron_right Show answer and explanation
A. Topical and oral NSAIDs to control inflammation
NSAIDs inhibit platelet function and may promote rebleeding; moreover, an oral NSAID is risky in a cat with chronic kidney disease.
B. Topical corticosteroid, rest and monitoring of intraocular pressure, avoiding NSAIDs
Correct. A topical corticosteroid controls the associated uveitis without affecting haemostasis. Pressure is monitored because clots can obstruct the angle and cause secondary glaucoma.
C. Atropine every 4 hours to dissolve the clot
Atropine does not dissolve clots. Its use in hyphaema is controversial because of the glaucoma risk and, in cats, the salivation caused by its bitter taste.
D. Aspirate the blood from the anterior chamber as soon as possible
Paracentesis can cause rebleeding and infection; most hyphaemas resolve on their own if the cause is controlled.
lightbulb Key takeaway
In an older cat with hyphaema or intraocular haemorrhage, always measure blood pressure: hypertension is the most common cause of spontaneous hyphaema in this population. Recheck intraocular pressure until the blood resorbs.
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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.