Blindness

[Dilcia]

My cat Willow has brown pigmentation marks in her eyes both the iris and the white part. The vet referred me to a specialist who confirmed it wasn't cancer as they are flat and she has no other symptoms. However, I have to go back 4th November to check the eyes. They have more colour change but she has no difficulty seeing.
I am concerned cos the vet said if it does turn into cancer both eyes will have to be removed. If not her vision will gradually go and she will die.
I know it may not happen but I want to know as much as possible in case.
I want to know if anyone has had their cat go immediately blind. Usually they are born blind or just one eye is removed, or they gradually go blind.
Thanks

[Crewella]

My Alpha lost first one eye and then the other due to glaucoma, so although there was a slow decline to a degree there was a sudden total loss of vision when she lost her second eye. The first two or three days she was very scared and disorientated, sat with us on the sofa and pretty much stuck to us like glue, but she then suddenly rallied and started finding her way about the house OK. Within a few months she was going out into the garden (which we made sure was secure) and even managed to come home with a mouse one day.

It's not something I'd wish on any cat, as it's hugely traumatic, and she did need a lot of guidance and support at first, but it's really not the end of the world. Hopefully, of course, Willow will be fine and all of this is just a 'worst case' scenario. xx

[elastu]

I have had 2 cats that lost their sight suddenly. Tango had a stroke went blind then after a couple of days her sight gradually returned. i noticed Jeanie on one of the stairs and noticed it looked like a light was on behind each eye. Apparently her retinas had detached due to high blood pressure. She adapted remarkably well and lived a few more years taking 1/8th of a very small BP tablet (I had fun dividing them) and a BP test every 2 months.

[mr_frisky]

My family had a cat who developed 2 detached retinas. She managed ok, although it was obviously traumatic for her. I also met a dog at a similar time who had suffered the same, and he seemed ok - going for walks, running around, sniffing etc.

[Dilcia]

Thank you all for your comments. I obviously will see what the vet says if this should have to happen, but am glad cats have managed in these circumstances. My friend has a 19 year old cat who had a detached retina and has to have 1/8 th of a blood pressure tab a day.
I was concerned and you have all helped.