What do the eyes of a dead cat look like? - briefly
The eyes of a dead cat typically appear cloudy and lack the usual shine or reflection seen in live animals. They may also have a sunken appearance due to the loss of muscle tone.
What do the eyes of a dead cat look like? - in detail
The eyes of a deceased cat undergo several changes that distinguish them from those of a living feline. Initially, shortly after death, the eyes may appear glassy or clouded over, with a loss of their characteristic brightness and sparkle. This is due to the cessation of blood flow, which halts the oxygen supply needed to maintain eye clarity.
As time progresses, typically within a few hours to a day, the eyes begin to sink into the sockets. This occurs because the muscles that control eye movement relax, and the lack of tension allows gravity to pull the eyeballs downward. Consequently, the whites of the eyes may become more visible, creating an appearance of staring or being wide-eyed.
Additionally, the pupils will dilate and remain fixed in this state. This dilation is a result of the absence of light stimulus, which in life would cause the pupils to constrict. The fixed nature of the pupils is indicative of the loss of muscle control that accompanies death.
In some cases, especially if the cat has been deceased for an extended period, the eyes may appear sunken and dull, with a yellowish or greenish tinge. This discoloration can be attributed to the breakdown of cellular structures within the eye, a process known as autolysis. The eyes may also exhibit cloudiness due to changes in the cornea and lens.
Overall, the eyes of a dead cat present a marked contrast to those of a living animal, reflecting the physiological changes that occur upon death.