What should you know about cat iris melanoma?

It may appear as a new or changing dark spot, a raised area on the iris, a pupil that looks different, or a change in vision. Some pigmented marks are benign, but growth, irregular colour, bleeding, pain, or visual disturbance requires professional examination. An eye specialist may use magnified examination, photographs, ultrasound, and other tests to distinguish a suspicious lesion and understand its extent.

Book an urgent ophthalmology assessment for a new or changing iris mark rather than trying to judge it from photographs. Bring prior eye records and describe when the change was noticed. Management may involve careful observation for a selected small lesion, local treatment, or surgery; the choice depends on size, position, vision, and evidence of spread. Ask how the plan protects useful vision.

Seek prompt eye care for sudden vision loss, new flashes or floaters, severe eye pain, marked redness, or a rapidly changing pupil or iris spot. These symptoms can have causes other than melanoma, but they should not wait for a routine skin appointment. Ongoing surveillance is part of care after treatment because the eye and the rest of the body may need review.

Ask what the examination shows, whether the lesion is growing, which tests are needed, how treatment may affect vision, whether staging is appropriate, and what follow-up schedule will monitor the eye and possible spread.