Himalayan Cat Eye Problems
The Himalayan cat, a cross of Siamese and Persian breeds, typically suffers from watery eyes due to its flattened facial structure. Himalayans also are genetically more prone to progressive retinal atrophy, a non-painful disease that starts with night blindness and eventually leads to total loss of vision.
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Watery Eyes
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The beautiful blue eyes of the Himalayan may need to be wiped daily. Himalayans are deliberately bred with a flattened face, which tends to inhibit breathing. This, in turn, compresses the tear ducts, causing watery eyes, in some cases almost constantly.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
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A less common but more serious condition among Himalayans is progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). This disease can affect other feline breeds, but it occurs most often in Himalayans and Persians.
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PRA Affects
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PRA causes the retinas in both of the cat's eyes to thin and degenerate. Typically, the cat develops normally into early adulthood, but then night blindness sets in and progresses to total blindness by 3 to 5 years of age.
PRA Symptoms
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The disease is not painful and therefore can be difficult to detect in its early stages. Initially, the cat may be reluctant to maneuver in dark places such as unlit hallways. In the later stages, dilation of the pupil, a reflection from light in the back of the eye or cloudiness in the lens may be apparent.
Treatment
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The only necessary treatment for watery eyes is a simple daily wiping. PRA is not treatable.
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References
- Photo Credit mean kitty image by Stephen Orsillo from Fotolia.com eyes image by Allyson Ricketts from Fotolia.com
