What kind of eye drops are safe for cats?

“Do not use any over-the-counter eye drops for your cat, unless it’s artificial tears,” Jones says. “Anything medicated can have a negative effect.” Holt adds that eye drops for dogs should also be avoided. “Some pet owners think that dogs’ eyes are similar to cats’ eyes, but that is really not the case.

Will cat eye infection go away on its own?

Some eye problems can go away on their own, but because many eye conditions are indicative of something more serious—like diseases that can lead to blindness or worse—diagnosis is crucial.

How do I get rid of my cats eye infection?

Dip a cotton ball in water. Wipe away the eye discharge, always from the corner of the eye outward. Use a fresh cotton ball for each eye. Steer clear of any over-the-counter drops or washes unless your vet has prescribed them.

What do vets prescribe for cat eye infections?

If your cat’s eye infection is the primary concern your vet may prescribe a topical treatment such as Terramycin® or Vetropolycin®.

When should I take my cat to the vet for eye discharge?

If your feline displays any of the following symptoms, call your family veterinarian immediately: An inflamed third eyelid that is covering a part of the infected eye. Sneezing, nasal discharge or other signs of respiratory distress. Red eyes.

Why does my cat have a weepy eye?

If you see this in one or both eyes, along with a watery discharge, there’s a good chance they have conjunctivitis. You may know it by its nickname, pinkeye. It’s the most common eye problem for cats. An infection, an allergy, or even dust can bring it on.

What does conjunctivitis look like in a cat?

If you see excessive tearing or watering from one or both eyes, abnormal discharge (cloudy, yellow, or greenish), or reddened conjunctival membranes, your cat may have conjunctivitis. Your cat may also squint or keep her eyes closed because of either discomfort or photophobia (a reluctance to be in bright light).

How can I clean my cats eyes?

Cleaning your cat’s eyes Gently wipe with a cotton wool ball dampened with clean water or a little baby oil. Use a separate ball for each eye and dry with a soft tissue. Great care should be taken not to touch the eyeball – this will be painful and your cat will try to avoid the experience next time.

Can I clean my cat’s eye with salt water?

Do Not use anything in your pet’s eye that you wouldn’t put in your own eye and NEVER use a salt water solution in or near the eye!

Is cat eye discharge contagious to humans?

Is cat conjunctivitis contagious to humans? The chances are very low for the viruses and bacteria responsible for cat conjunctivitis to be transmitted to humans. Regardless, you should still be mindful of some basic rules of hygiene such as washing your hands when petting your poorly cat until they recover.

Should I wipe my cats eyes?

Generally, you will not need to clean the area around your cat’s eyes. However, if you have a cat with a very flat face, eg. a Persian cat, it may well have eyes which water constantly which will need wiping on a regular basis. Gently wipe with a cotton wool ball dampened with clean water or a little baby oil.

What color should cat eye discharge be?

Eye discharge in cats is a symptom rather than a disease itself, and has a variety of causes. Eye discharge may be clear and runny, or it may be green/yellow and thick.

Can a cat eye infection spread to humans?

The rare infection can be passed from cats to humans through bites or scratches, but can also be transmitted through affectionate behaviors like licking.

Why is my cats eye shut?

An eye infection (conjunctivitis) – causing inflammation, itching and discharge. Something irritating – such as smoke, dust, sand, wind and chemicals. An allergic reaction – often causes severe swelling around the eyes and in other parts of the body. Glaucoma – increased pressure in the eye.

Why does my cat have dirty eyes?

Epiphora is most commonly associated with insufficient drainage of the tear film from the eye. The most common cause of insufficient tear drainage is a blockage of the nasolacrimal ducts or poor eyelid function due to a deformity. Epiphora may also result from the excessive production of tears.

Can cat’s cry?

While a cat’s eyes may not literally shed tears when they’re feeling sad, they do feel emotions just like other animals. While cat’s tear ducts can create tears, they do this for medical reasons – not because your cat is sad. Cats crying tears can be a sign of debris, a scratch on your cat’s eye, or other eye problems.