Older Cats Eyes Are Always Dilated. This requires some very simple tests and examinations. She has always had very striking big eyes.
This is a response to her increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure. But occasional dilation can be caused by contentment, excitement, and most often the level of light in her surroundings. Nystagmus can occur in both dogs and cats and is a characteristic sign of a problem in the animal's nervous system.
Treating the underlying hypertension is important, too!
Also, squinting behavior and bloodshot eyes are indicators of pain in cats. Are your cats eyes always dilated?. This means that in the early stages of illness, often the only thing that a cat owner may notice is that the cat has become quiet and withdrawn. In certain situations this difference may be habitual, however, when the condition becomes permanent, it is not normal and we must act.