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Cats/lazy eye in kitten?

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Expert: - 4/6/2010


Question
Is it possible for cats to have a 'lazy eye' like humans?
My cat had 3 kittens 2 weeks ago. I have 2 orange and a gray one.

I think my gray one has a 'lazy eye'
It's his left eye, the eye doesn't move like the other one. It looks off to the side. Is this because he's still a baby getting used to seeing? The 2 orange ones don't do it like he does. I know sometimes you see pictures of kittens and their eyes look off in weird directions.

Here, I got a really good picture of him (by accident) and that is when I noticed it. His right eye is clearly looking into the camera, but his left one is pointing in the opposite direction.
If it is a lazy eye, will this be detrimental in any way as he is growing up??

Thanks

pic:
http://desiland.netau.net/xxx/kittens/DSCF8139.jpg

Answer
Kayla,

At this point based on the photo it looks to me like this kitten's eyes are fine. You have to remember that kittens are born very immature so it may take some time before this baby can easily focus his eyes properly. If you are still seeing the issue with this baby's eyes after 2-3 weeks then you should have this little guy seen by a vet just to be sure that there's nothing more serious going on with him, but in my experience this type of issue in very young kittens that have recently opened their eyes isn't uncommon.

If you're interested I'd be happy to provide you with extensive information about the normal developmental stages you can expect to see in the kittens, how long they should remain with their mom and littermates (6-8 weeks of age is way too young to leave mom under normal circumstances and may increase the likelihood of the kittens developing behavioral issues later on in life), how soon mom can become pregnant again after giving birth (much sooner than most people would think) and how to provide the best possible nutrition for mom and her nursing babies. If you have any further cat related questions or concerns I'd be more than happy to help you out to the best of my ability so please don't hesitate to contact me again anytime.

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I am the proud guardian of 5 mixed breed cats ranging from 12 weeks to 13 years old and one purebred ragdoll. I have 20+ years experience working with mixed breed cats from a variety of different situations. I have fostered cats/kittens with special needs/behavioral issues. I have rescued/rehabilitated/re-homed a variety of stray/abused cats. I can offer advice on managing feral cat colonies, rehabilitating strays and finding them forever homes. I can help you to determine whether a cat is stray or feral, there IS a significant difference. Improperly introducing a new cat/kitten can result in aggression between newly introduced cats because cats are territorial by nature and they don't like sudden changes in their environment. To learn more about a peaceful way to introduce a new cat into a home with other cats please check out my previous answers on this subject. Proper nutrition for cats can be confusing, I recommend checking out catinfo.org which was created by a veterinarian (Dr. Lisa Pierson) who takes a common sense approach to explaining feline nutrition. Cat behavior and instincts are different from those of humans, I can help you understand your cat's needs so that you can meet them adequately and have a balanced, psychologically and physically sound kitty. Cats vary in personality, energy level and intelligence, different approaches may be required to achieve results in terms of training and interaction with your feline companion. An intelligent, high energy cat must be kept busy or they will make their own fun. I am NOT a licensed veterinarian and I can't offer medical advice. If your cat is ill/injured my advice is always the same: get prompt medical treatment provided by a veterinarian. If finances are an issue I will try to find resources in your area that can help with medical costs or make other choices to ensure the welfare of your cat.

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I have fostered feral and stray cats, rehabilitated and homed cats that many people recommended euthanasia for. I am willing to make an effort to do the research and ask questions because I care enough to find solutions to behavioral problems rather than giving up. I have an interest in the use of alternative therapies to help provide the best possible care for all cats and I can say in all honesty that I've seen some incredible things happen for some incredible cats and their human caregivers when the right alternative therapeutic modality is used by a qualified veterinarian with expertise and experience in the field.

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I've earned my diploma as a veterinary assistant with honors.

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