Moderate severity

Eosinophilic Keratitis

An unusual inflammatory eye condition in which a pink, raised, chalky-looking film of tissue creeps across the surface of the cornea.

⚠️ Common symptoms

A pink, white or grey raised plaque on the clear part of the eyeA rough, cottage-cheese-like film over the corneaSquinting, watering or mild discomfortRedness around the affected eyeUsually one eye first, sometimes both

Eosinophilic keratitis is a distinctive and somewhat mysterious feline eye condition. Owners usually notice it as a pinkish or chalky, slightly raised film that begins at the edge of the cornea — the clear dome at the front of the eye — and spreads inward, sometimes described as looking like cottage cheese smeared across the surface.

The hallmark is an invasion of the cornea by eosinophils, white blood cells normally associated with allergic and parasitic responses. Exactly why this happens is not fully understood, but there is a well-recognised link with the feline herpesvirus, the same common virus behind many cat colds, which appears to help set off the abnormal reaction.

Diagnosis is often confirmed by a vet taking a tiny sample of the surface cells and finding the tell-tale eosinophils. The good news is that the condition generally responds well to treatment, though it tends to need prolonged therapy and can recur. Because the herpesvirus connection means some anti-inflammatory treatments must be used carefully, this is very much a condition to manage with veterinary guidance rather than over-the-counter remedies.

🔍 Causes

The cause is an abnormal accumulation of eosinophils — a type of white blood cell linked to allergic and inflammatory responses — in the cornea. There is a strong association with the feline herpesvirus (FHV-1), which is thought to help trigger the reaction in many cats.

🛡 Prevention

There is no specific way to prevent it, but supporting a cat's immune health, reducing stress that can reactivate latent herpesvirus, and treating eye infections promptly may reduce flare-ups in susceptible cats.

💊 Treatment

Treatment aims to calm the abnormal inflammation, most often with topical anti-inflammatory eye medication used for an extended period. Because the feline herpesvirus is frequently involved, vets may pair this with antiviral treatment and monitor closely, since some anti-inflammatory drops can aggravate a herpes flare if used alone.

When to see a vet: See a vet for any persistent film, plaque or cloudiness on the eye, squinting or discharge. Corneal conditions can look similar to one another, so an accurate diagnosis is needed before treatment.

⚕️ Medical disclaimer

  • This information is educational only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.
  • Symptoms overlap between conditions — only a vet can diagnose accurately.
  • Never withhold treatment or self-medicate based on information found online.
  • When in doubt, call your vet. Early intervention almost always leads to better outcomes.

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