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Veterinary Manual

Find information on animal health topics, written for the veterinary professional.

Prolapse of the Eye in Cats

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Prolapse of the Eye in Cats

By Kirk N. Gelatt, VMD, DACVO, Emeritus Distinguished Professor, Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida
David G. Baker, DVM, MS, PhD, DACLAM, Director and Professor, Division of Laboratory Animal Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University
A. K. Eugster, DVM, PhD, Director and Head, Diagnostic Services, Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory

Also see professional content regarding prolapse of the eye.

Severe prolapse (slipping out of place) and/or bulging of the eye can be caused by trauma. It is uncommon in cats. The outcome depends on the extent of the trauma, depth of the eye socket, duration of the displacement, resting pupil size, condition of the eye, and other damage near the eye. In cats, forward displacement is usually caused by severe trauma to the head; often, facial bones are broken. The eyeball should be put back in place surgically as soon as possible if the cat is in good enough health to have general anesthesia. The upper and lower eyelids are temporarily stitched closed to protect the damaged eye and prevent recurrence. Treatment includes antibiotics (both given by mouth or injection and topical ointments or creams) to prevent infection. Occasionally other medications are needed as well. Although vision does not usually return in the injured eye, the eyeball can usually be saved.

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Foodborne pathogens have similar nutritional and environmental requirements that affect their ability to multiply. Food handlers can control these aspects to limit pathogen growth. For example, pathogens grow best when the temperature is 40°F and 140°F. In general, perishable foods should not be kept in this danger zone for more than how many hours?