Eyes of The British Shorthair and What to Know About Glaucoma

The majority of those who have seen a British Shorthair, and also those who haven’t, but have heard about them, would typically see or picture a blueish-grey cat, a stubby cat that looks like a cuddly animal.

The fantastic thing about this is, you may be pleasantly surprised to find that these are available in more shades than one, as well as different patterns. As a formally recognized breed in most cat registries, the British Shorthair, the classic blue or referred to as a ‘self’ colour is usually what most awards and competitions go for, however as the decades have come and gone, many breeders have sought to expand this range of colours.

These charming natured animals make for some of the best pets in many households, and not just in Britain. Many keep them because of a few reasons such as their long lifespan, which extends to almost 20 years, their low maintenance, and their cute demeanour. They can get along with anyone from children, to seniors as well as other pets in the home.

These are not hostile cats, and are very laid back, unlike other breeds which can be destructive. They are also one of the most loyal pets to have and love being around family members. They will not fight back when provoked and prefer to make an exit from any stressful situation.

According to official descriptions, they are referred to as “cobby’s” because of their stocky bodies and broad face and chest. Click here to read more. While some are not recognized, there are still others, an array of hues and shades, that are. We look at a few of the different patterns and hues that they are bred in and the amazing assortments that are produced as a result, below.

What to Know About Their Eyes of The Kittens

First, we look at the different varieties of eye colours they have. In the earlier days when they were bred with the Russian Blues, they would emerge a solid-blue-grey shade with copper or mustard colour eyes. But newer owners are starting to see different hues now, some with shades of blue as well as amber or orange.

However, what not many knows is that all the kitten’s eyes will start as blue, will adapt as they get older to the popular copper shades. This is not just restricted to these breeds but is something that happens with almost all others too. It is only after several weeks that you will see the change in their eye colour.

Registered breeders usually give them for adoption once they are 12 weeks old. By this stage, however, most of them have their original eye shades already. A little bit about the kitten’s eyes:

• In their first week, they won’t be doing much, besides eating, sleeping and growing.
• In their second week, their eyes start to open and they may get a lot bigger as well.
• In some cases when they reach 14 days old or 2 weeks, their eyes are fully open and you can see the hazy-blue shades.

Some people worry that their eyes do not change even after 12 weeks, however, this is normal and you may need to wait till at least 3 months before it starts to show completely. If, however, you prefer the blue eyes, you can adopt one that has these, even in their adult stages. Although, a point to note is that, the normal stage is a change from the blue, to a brown and then an orange or copper, but if this does not happen in most cases it is not normal and may be an indication of an eye infection or disorder.

The Eye Condition Known as Glaucoma

Some kittens may suffer from Glaucoma. This is a mild condition, but if not treated soon, they could suffer from vision loss: https://wagwalking.com/cat/condition/glaucoma although if it continues to their adult stages, chances are they will not be able to perform many activities.

This condition happens when the aqueous humour fluid in their eyes, do not drain adequately, and this leads to an increase in pressure, often referred to as intraocular pressure. This results in the optic nerve and retina in the eye affecting the brain, which starts to deteriorate. A kind of nerve damage, Glaucoma, can lead to vision loss and swelling of the eyeballs or destruction of the membranes and lens displacement in the cornea.

It can be treated, and if not done soon enough can cause total or partial blindness. If you are looking for symptoms, these can include several things such as:

• Watery discharge
• Behaviour changes
• Vision loss
• Rubbing of eyes
• Redness of blood vessels in the eye
• Cloudy eyes
• Eyeball swelling or bulging
• Squinting
• Rapid blinking
• Dilated pupils that fail to respond to light
• Loss of appetite
• Depression
• Pressing of the head, or headaches in cats

Albeit a rare condition, if you see any of the signs above, seek help from your vet immediately. You can also check out other sources of information on what you can do at home to help your kitty, including the holistapet cat breeds guide and information presented on some highly nutritious foods and diet to give them which will help keep them with pain and inflammation relieve until the situation is remedied by the veterinarian.

Feeding them well, helping them with activities, keeping them warm and loving them, may also help them feel better if they get uncomfortable.

Jack Potter

“Entrepreneur. Freelance introvert. Creator. Passionate reader. Certified beer ninja. Food nerd.”