Present this coupon to claim your pet's free first exam and get started with care designed around your pet.

Learn how to recognize signs your pet may be overweight and discover simple ways to support a healthy weight through nutrition, activity, and veterinary care.

Pet Obesity Awareness Month: Healthy Weight Tips

Prepare your pet for the unexpected this National Preparedness Month with tips for emergency kits, evacuation plans, identification, medications, and more.

National Preparedness Month: How to Prepare Your Pet for an Emergency

Learn the differences between wet and dry cat food, their benefits, and how to choose the right diet for your cat's age, health, and needs.

Wet Food vs. Dry Food: Which Is Best for Your Cat?

Learn how to recognize signs of pain in dogs and cats, understand changes in behavior and mobility, and know when to contact your veterinarian.

Animal Pain Awareness Month: Recognizing the Signs of Pain in Your Pet

Learn how CareCredit can help make veterinary care more manageable with flexible financing options for wellness visits, dental care, emergencies, and more.

We Accept CareCredit: A Flexible Way to Pay for Your Pet's Care

Fri Apr 11 2025 01:52:16 GMT+0530 (India Standard Time)

Owings Mills Veterinary Center

about-us-page

our-history-section

our-teams-section

We are dedicated to providing the highest level of care along with friendly, compassionate service.

why-us-section

app-download-page

blogs-page

blogs-section

book-appointment-page

book-appointment-section

Embedded content

care-memberships

care-plan

career-page

careers-section

<p dir="auto">At Central Texas Vet, we go beyond standard testing.</p><p dir="auto">Dr. Madigan is actively developing advanced serologic testing methods to improve detection accuracy.</p><p dir="auto">Your dog’s evaluation may include:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Comprehensive physical exam</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Cardiac screening</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Specialized blood testing for T. cruzi</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Advanced diagnostics when needed</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">Early detection allows for better management and improved outcomes.</p>

<p dir="auto">Dr. Roy Madigan, D.V.M., is not just a veterinarian. He is one of the leading experts in canine Chagas disease in the United States.</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Founder of Vida Pharmacal, focused on breakthrough parasitic disease treatments</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Filed the first veterinary drug patent for anti-T. cruzi activity in dogs</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Principal scientist for the U.S. military working dog Chagas treatment study</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Veterinary lead for the Texas Chagas Task Force alongside the CDC and UT Health</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Pioneer in developing diagnostic and treatment protocols for infected dogs</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">Your pet is being treated by the same expert helping shape how Chagas disease is understood nationwide.</p>

Dr. Roy Madigan, D.V.M., is not just a veterinarian. He is one of the leading experts in canine Chagas disease in the United States.
<br><br>
• Founder of Vida Pharmacal, focused on breakthrough parasitic disease treatments
<br>• Filed the first veterinary drug patent for anti-T. cruzi activity in dogs
<br>• Principal scientist for the U.S. military working dog Chagas treatment study
<br>• Veterinary lead for the Texas Chagas Task Force alongside the CDC and UT Health
<br>• Pioneer in developing diagnostic and treatment protocols for infected dogs
<br><br>
Your pet is being treated by the same expert helping shape how Chagas disease is understood nationwide.

<p dir="auto">Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, transmitted by “kissing bugs” commonly found in Texas.</p><p dir="auto">Once infected, dogs may appear normal while the parasite attacks the heart and other organs.</p><p dir="auto">Without intervention, Chagas can lead to:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Heart disease</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Arrhythmias</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Sudden death</p></li></ul><p dir="auto"></p>

Get In Touch

<b>Early Detection. Advanced Treatment. Led by One of the Nation’s Top Experts.</b>

<b>Do not wait for symptoms to appear.</b>

<p dir="auto">Chagas disease progresses in stages. The earlier it is identified:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">The more treatment options are available</p></li><li><p dir="auto">The better heart damage can be managed</p></li><li><p dir="auto">The higher the chance of improving quality of life</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">Waiting can mean irreversible cardiac damage.</p>

If your dog may have been exposed to kissing bugs, do not wait. Chagas disease can silently damage the heart before symptoms appear. Early diagnosis can make the difference.

<p dir="auto">Chagas disease is often silent early on, but warning signs may include:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Lethargy or decreased activity</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Fainting or collapse</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Irregular heartbeat</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Difficulty breathing</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Unexplained weight loss</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">If your dog spends time outdoors, lives in Central Texas, or has been exposed to insects, they may be at risk even without symptoms.</p>

If your dog may be at risk, schedule an evaluation today and get answers from one of the leading experts in the field.

chagas-disease

<p dir="auto">At The Animal Hospital of Smithson Valley, we go beyond standard testing.</p><p dir="auto">Dr. Madigan is actively developing advanced serologic testing methods to improve detection accuracy.</p><p dir="auto">Your dog’s evaluation may include:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Comprehensive physical exam</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Cardiac screening</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Specialized blood testing for T. cruzi</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Advanced diagnostics when needed</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">Early detection allows for better management and improved outcomes.</p>

<p dir="auto">Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, transmitted by “kissing bugs” commonly found in Texas.</p><p dir="auto">Once infected, dogs may appear normal while the parasite attacks the heart and other organs.</p><p dir="auto">Without intervention, Chagas can lead to:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Sudden death</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Heart disease</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Arrhythmias</p></li></ul><p dir="auto"></p>

chagas-disease-ahsv

contact-us

copy-of-chagas-disease

Accordion Title

#1f2937

forms-page

get-in-touch

landing-page

contact-us-section

cta-bar

emergency-branches

faq-section

footer-section

hero-section

otto-widget-section

our-services-section

testimonials-section

vetstoria-widget-section

Financial Aid:

Obedience:

Local Dog Parks:

Boarding Kennels In Our Area:

Microchipping:

Doggie Daycare in our Area:

Adoptions:

General Information:

links-and-resources

news-page

our-history-page

Our <b>East Side Entrance</b> is located on Early Street, across from the Hanover Apartment Building. Our <b>North Side Entrance</b> is located on Irby Avenue, across from Woody’s Cheesesteak.

parking

payment-info-page

payment-information-section

payment-section-3

promotions

services-page

service-page-section

team-page

teams-page-section

video-page

pixel_google

pixel_facebook

Header Cookie Consent - 671f33c5d8e9f7c6b5f082c9

cookie_settings_1750955345987

<button id="ot-sdk-btn" class="ot-sdk-show-settings">Cookie Settings</button>
 

cookie_list_1750955346272

cookie_microsoft

<p dir="auto">The cat’s eye…the iris color may be striking, but the pupil, the black part of the eye, gives you information about your cat. In a healthy cat, the pupils constrict and become slit-like in bright light, and dilate to improve their vision by absorbing more light in dim settings. But that isn’t the only time a cat’s pupils dilate.</p><p dir="auto">The cat’s eyes are windows to his health and well-being. A cat’s eyes will also dilate when she’s excited, afraid, or injured. Though these situations are not a cause for the pupils to remain dilated for more than a couple of hours before going back to normal. Constant dilation of the eyes is a sign that something is wrong. Many health issues are associated with dilated eyes, so it’s a concern when they do not return to normal. This article will discuss the implications of a cat’s dilated eyes.</p><p dir="auto">&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>When Are Dilated Eyes Normal?</strong></h2><p dir="auto">Normal eye dilation occurs:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">In reduced light. The pupil dilates to let in more light.</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Emotional response to anger or aggravation, happiness, fear, or excitement.</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Medications include amphetamine, Atropine, clonidine, morphine, and tropicamide.</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Catnip consumption.</p></li></ul><h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>When Aren’t Dilated Eyes Normal?</strong></h2><p dir="auto">It isn’t normal for a cat’s eyes to remain continually dilated. When this happens, it can indicate:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Overstimulation</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Pain</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Age-related atrophy</p></li><li><p dir="auto">A medical condition</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">&nbsp;</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Related Health Conditions</strong></h3><p dir="auto">There are serious health conditions associated with dilated pupils that don’t contract, including:</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Anisocoria</strong></h3><p dir="auto">This is when a cat’s pupils are two different sizes. It’s a sign there’s an abnormality that could have been caused by infection, trauma, stroke, or tumors. There is a defect somewhere between the brain, nerve pathways, and the eyes. This isn’t a disease but an indicator of something else being wrong.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Brain Tumor</strong></h3><p dir="auto">The most common kind of feline brain tumor is a meningioma. This is a benign tumor arising from the meninges (the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord).</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Feline Dilated Pupil Syndrome</strong></h3><p dir="auto">A rare condition also known as Key-Gaskell Syndrome. A dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system causes this condition. This system regulates the basic, unconscious body functions including the heart muscle, the digestive system, and the pupils of the eyes.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Glaucoma</strong></h3><p dir="auto">Glaucoma is a condition that happens when pressure in the eye increases to the point that it damages the optic nerve. It’s usually caused by a blockage in the drainage system in the eye. Glaucoma can lead to blindness.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Hypocalcemia</strong></h3><p dir="auto">This is a low level of calcium in the bloodstream. Calcium is important in vital functions such as transmission of nerve impulses, bone growth, muscle contraction, and blood clotting.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Head Trauma</strong></h3><p dir="auto">Any trauma involving the cat’s head can potentially cause brain damage and affect the autonomic nervous system.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Insulinoma</strong></h3><p dir="auto">Insulinomas are cancerous, fast-growing tissue of beta cells in the pancreas.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Retinal Detachment</strong></h3><p dir="auto">A common and sight-threatening disorder of the eye when the retina detaches from the retinal pigment epithelium layer.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Thiamine Deficiency</strong></h3><p dir="auto">A vitamin that plays a role in many bodily functions, including the nervous system. Thiamine deficiency is rare in cats and is usually tied to a home-made diet.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Venom Toxicity</strong></h3><p dir="auto">Sources of venom toxicity are snakes, spiders, and other venomous insects.</p><p dir="auto">&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>What Should You Do?</strong></h2><p dir="auto">If you notice your cat’s eyes have been dilated longer than normal, move him into bright light or shine a light into one eye. See if the pupils constrict. If not, call your veterinarian and follow their guidance.</p><p dir="auto">&nbsp;</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Veterinarian Exam</strong></h3><p dir="auto">Your vet will perform a complete exam and may need to run diagnostic testing to uncover the cause.</p><p dir="auto">They will need a medical history if this is your first time at this veterinarian’s office. Prepare to answer questions such as:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Is your cat on medication?</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Has your cat’s vision been affected?</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Are there other symptoms?</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Does your cat have any medical conditions?</p></li><li><p dir="auto">How long have your cat’s eyes been dilated?</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Did your cat get into any cleaners or chemicals?</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Do you have toxic house plants?</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Does your cat ever go outside?</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">&nbsp;</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Your cat’s eyes will be carefully examined.</strong></h3><p dir="auto">Some diagnostics your vet may order include:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Baseline tests (bloodwork, urinalysis, blood pressure, etc.)</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Ophthalmoscopy, to examine the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels.</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Gonioscopy, to examine the eye’s drainage system.</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Tonometry, to measure the pressure inside the eye for glaucoma.</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Ultrasound, to evaluate the eyes.</p></li><li><p dir="auto">CT scan to evaluate for brain tumors.</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Loss Of Vision</strong></h2><p dir="auto">When a cat is losing its vision, the eyes will remain dilated as the eyes try to absorb more light to see. If you notice your cat isn’t acting normally and displays some or all of the following signs, she may be blind or very near blind.</p><p dir="auto">&nbsp;</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Signs of feline visual impairment include:</strong></h3><ul><li><p dir="auto">Reluctance to jump or climb</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Squinting</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Redness around the eyes</p></li><li><p dir="auto">A milky or cloudy appearance to the eyes</p></li><li><p dir="auto">It may seem unbalanced when walking</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Difficulty finding water</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Walking with whiskers low to the ground</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Frightened by sudden noises</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Excessive vocalization, distressed</p></li></ul><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>There are some simple ways to test your cat’s vision.</strong></h3><ul><li><p dir="auto">Use a laser pointer quickly over the floor in front of your cat.</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Toss cotton balls in front of the cat. A cat will usually play with them.</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Wave your hand toward your cat’s eyes (not fast enough to generate air flow). They should blink.</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Shine a bright light in your cat’s eyes. They should respond.</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">&nbsp;</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>If your cat permanently loses sight, there are things you can do to help.</strong></h3><ul><li><p dir="auto">Leave furniture where the cat is used to it being located.</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Talk to your cat a lot in a soothing tone.</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Don’t “sneak” up on your cat.</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Keep obstacles out of your cat’s way.</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Avoid loud noises.</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">&nbsp;</p><p dir="auto"></p>

A cat's eyes can be dilated for many reasons, from joyful play, a catnip high, to a vision-stealing disease. If your cat's eyes return to normal and don't remain dilated, then there is probablyn't need for concern. But even if your cat has a condition that causes the loss of vision, she can adapt and have a quality of life. If you are worried about your cat, call your veterinarian. Many times, a simple phone call can relieve your fears with an explanation of what your cat is experiencing.



Why Are My Cat's Eyes Dilated?

gtm_67f8287603a946b407b4257a

At Owings Mills Veterinary Center, We Are Just As Passionate About Our Team As We Are About Pets.

owingsmillsveterinarycenter

Compassionate and quality care for your pets.

Same day appointments and walk-ins available

Served over 10,000 fur babies and their happy families.

<p>To help us provide the best care possible, payment is required at the time of service. We accept cash and all major credit cards, and we are happy to offer a deferred interest payment plan through CareCredit.</p>

CareCredit

Trupanion Pet Insurance

ScratchPay

Mr. Dog Training

Tree Frog Farm Personalized – Dog Training and Agility

Brunswick Maine Dog Park

Great Island Kennel

Pet Sitters of Maine

The Brown Dog Inn

Camp Bow Wow

Falmouth Happy Cats

Home Again

The Blue Dog Daycare

Happy Paws Unleashed

Midcoast Humane

Passion for Pets Rescue Organization

Coastal Maine Great Dane Rescue

VeterinaryPartner.com

The Indoor Pet Initiative

Feline Fix by Five

Traveling Out of the Country with Your Pet

AAHA Pet Health Library

Pet Poison Control

Consult Online

Online Store

Pet Portal

Forms

Download App

Additional Services

General Services

Speciality Services

Free Exam for New Clients! See Below for Details.

Enhance your pet's recovery and mobility with custom rehabilitation at (). Our expert team uses therapeutic exercise, laser therapy, and underwater treadmill sessions to reduce pain, rebuild strength, and restore comfort. Schedule your pet's rehab consultation today.

Pet Rehabilitation

Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to stimulate healing and reduce pain in animals.

Laser Therapy

Ensure your pet travels safely with veterinary health certificates and travel documentation support. Our veterinarians provide exams, guidance, and required paperwork to help prepare your pet for travel based on your destination and specific requirements.

Pet Health Certificates

Saying goodbye is the hardest part of loving a pet. When that time comes, you deserve clarity, comfort, and the space to make decisions with peace of mind.

End-of-Life Support

When your pet needs medication, trust and convenience matter. At (), we prescribe and dispense medications directly from the team whos seen your pet, knows their health history, and understands their specific needs.
No guessing, no delays, and no unnecessary confusion.


Pet Prescriptions

Skin issues are one of the most common reasons pets end up at the vet, and they're also some of the most frustrating. Allergies, infections, or even food sensitivities can all cause your pet discomfort.

Dermatology & Allergy Care

When pets act out, there's almost always a reason. Anxiety, fear, medical conditions, or past trauma can show up as barking, biting, hiding, or destruction. Our job is to uncover the cause and help your pet feel safe again.

Pet Behavior & Anxiety Support

Nutrition is the foundation of good health, and a powerful tool in managing weight, energy, chronic conditions, and even behavior.

Pet Nutrition

A sudden limp. A skipped meal. A look that says something's off. When your pet isn't feeling right, same-day answers make all the difference. 

Urgent Care

Your pet can't tell you when something's wrong. That's why regular wellness exams are so important. These visits give us the chance to catch health issues early, before they become painful or costly.  

Wellness Exams

Fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms are not just a nuisance, they are dangerous. These tiny pests can cause serious health issues like Lyme disease, heartworm disease, and tapeworms. 

Parasite Prevention

Bad breath isn't just annoying - it's often a sign of deeper health issues. Dental disease in pets can lead to oral pain, local or systemic infection, tooth loss, and even heart, liver, or kidney complications. 

Dental Care

Permanent ID for Peace of Mind. A collar can come off. A tag can get lost. But a microchip is a permanent, tamper-proof way to make sure your pet always has a way home. At (), we offer safe and simple microchip implantation, so your pet stays connected to you, no matter what.

Pet Microchipping

Spaying or neutering your pet is one of the most important decisions you can make for their long-term health. It helps prevent certain cancers and infections, curbs unwanted behaviors, and reduces the number of orphaned pets in shelters.

Spay And Neuter

Preventive care is vital for the overall health for your pet. Providing the needed vaccinations, exams, and tests ensures your pet's health and greatly increases the chances of finding any potential issues early for better outcomes and lower costs. 

Wellness Plans

Vaccines are one of the most important tools we have to protect pets from serious, often deadly diseases. Whether you have a rambunctious or a relaxed pet, vaccinations help your pet build strong immunity and avoid preventable illness.

Vaccinations

Comprehensive surgical services, from routine procedures to complex operations, all are performed with expert care.

Pet Surgeries

When your pet isn't acting like themselves, diagnostic testing helps us find the reason. From bloodwork, urine testing, and fecal exams to x-rays, these tests give us a window into what's happening inside, so we can take action before things get worse.

Diagnostic Testing

When pets get sick or injured, you want answers fast. Advanced imaging gives us a deeper look, without invasive procedures.

Sheet title

Why Are My Cat's Eyes Dilated?

Recent Blogs

FAQs

Sheet title

Why Are My Cat's Eyes Dilated?

Recent Blogs

Pet Obesity Awareness Month: Healthy Weight Tips

National Preparedness Month: How to Prepare Your Pet for an Emergency

Wet Food vs. Dry Food: Which Is Best for Your Cat?

FAQs

Do you offer pet dental care services?

What are the most common health issues for senior pets?

How often should I bring my pet to the vet for a check-up?

What is the best diet for my dog or cat?

What should I do if my pet shows signs of illness?