Why Are Some Cats Cross-Eyed?

Although there are many cat breeds in the world, many of their characteristics are similar to each other, like their size, pointy ears, and body structure. However, some cats have features that you might associate more with humans than animals, such as crossed eyes. You may not have ever seen a cross-eyed cat in person, but it's actually a common feline condition medically referred to as strabismus. Most cats with crossed eyes were born that way (congenital strabismus), but some develop it later in life (acquired strabismus) as the result of a health problem.

Certain breeds are more likely to be born with crossed eyes than others, including Siamese cats, Persian cats, and Himalayan cats. Cats with congenital strabismus can still see everything around them and live normally, since they can start adapting to the condition as soon as their eyes open. Cats that become cross-eyed months or years after birth, on the other hand, may struggle with the vision change and require veterinary care. This latter group of cats and those born with the condition may also struggle with depth perception and focus.

Inner ear infection or disease, eye injury, cancer, tumors, feline leukemia virus, and nerve damage are some of the causes of acquired strabismus. In some cases, strabismus as a result of an underlying condition can be reversed with treatment. This is why it's important for owners to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian as soon as they notice that their cat's eyes have crossed.

There is no medical reason to treat congenital strabismus since no health condition caused the cat's eyes to cross. However, veterinarians typically recommend that cats with acquired strabismus receive treatment, especially since cancer can be a cause. Any other common cat illnesses that may have led to the crossed eyes will help determine the course of treatment.

Surgery is one treatment option. If an injury caused the eyes to cross, the doctor may recommend corrective surgery. If a tumor is a culprit, treatment options could include tumor removal, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of the three, depending on if it's benign or malignant. The veterinarian might even suggest complete eye removal if the tumor is found to be cancerous and aggressive.

Medication and physical therapy are two other available treatments. A veterinarian would typically prescribe antibiotics if the strabismus is the result of an abscess, meningitis, or an ear infection that affects the brain. Physical therapy can be an alternative to corrective surgery, with the goal of strengthening the eye muscles with various activities that encourage eye movement in specific directions. While crossed eyes don't necessarily mean there is an issue — and may just be a quirk of your cat — if there are any changes, talking to your vet is best.

Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your pet's diet, exercise, or care. To find an accredited veterinarian in your area, you can search the American Animal Hospital Association's online database.