What should you know about melanoma in cat eye?

In cats, a dark spot or mass may arise on the iris, eyelid, conjunctiva, or deeper eye structures. Possible signs include a new or enlarging pigmented area, an uneven pupil, redness, squinting, cloudiness, discharge, rubbing, or bumping into objects. These findings can also result from inflammation, injury, infection, or other tumours. A veterinary ophthalmologist may use magnification, measure eye pressure, examine the back of the eye, and assess nearby tissues. A tissue sample or removal may be needed to identify melanoma and judge its behaviour.

The veterinary team may recommend imaging and checks of lymph nodes or other organs. The treatment decision balances tumour control, comfort, vision, and the cat's overall health.

Contact a veterinarian promptly when a cat develops a changing eye colour, visible mass, persistent squinting, or signs of reduced vision. Prevent rubbing if possible and do not use human eye drops or leftover medicines. Keep the cat indoors until assessed, record when the change was first noticed, and bring medication details. Treatment can include local surgery, removal of the eye when necessary for comfort or tumour control, or specialist oncology care; the veterinarian will explain the options.

Seek emergency veterinary care for sudden blindness, a bulging or severely painful eye, major trauma, heavy bleeding, marked swelling, or a cat that is distressed and unable to eat. A same-day appointment is appropriate for a rapidly changing pupil or mass. If melanoma is diagnosed, new breathing difficulty, severe weakness, seizures, or collapse require urgent veterinary attention because serious disease can extend beyond the eye.

Ask where the lesion is located, whether it appears confined to the eye, what tests are needed, and whether a veterinary ophthalmologist should be involved. Discuss comfort, vision, surgical choices, anaesthesia, recovery at home, and how follow-up will monitor the eye and the rest of the cat.