If a cat injures its eye, what should I do? - briefly
If your cat sustains an eye injury, it is crucial to remain calm and contact your veterinarian immediately. Avoid attempting any treatment yourself as this could worsen the injury.
If a cat injures its eye, what should I do? - in detail
If your cat sustains an eye injury, prompt and appropriate action can be crucial for preserving its vision. Here is a step-by-step guide on what you should do:
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Stay Calm: It's essential to remain calm and composed. Cats are perceptive animals and can sense your anxiety, which might cause them to become more agitated.
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Assess the Situation: Carefully examine the injured eye for any visible signs of trauma such as bleeding, swelling, or discharge. Also, check if the cat is squinting or holding the eye closed.
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Contain the Cat: Gently but firmly contain your cat to prevent it from running away or causing further injury. You can use a blanket or towel to wrap the cat securely without causing additional stress.
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Do Not Attempt to Remove Foreign Objects: If there is an object embedded in the eye, do not try to remove it yourself as this could cause further damage. Covering the injured eye with a clean cloth or bandage can help protect it until you reach veterinary care.
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Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately: Eye injuries require immediate professional attention. Call your vet and inform them about the situation. They will advise you on whether to bring the cat in immediately or if there are any preliminary steps you should take.
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Prevent Further Injury: While waiting for veterinary care, keep the cat in a quiet, dark room to minimize stress and prevent further injury. Avoid giving any medication without your vet's approval.
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Follow Veterinary Advice: Once at the vet, follow their instructions carefully. They may administer pain relief, antibiotics, or perform surgery if necessary. Keep all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and monitoring of the eye injury.
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Administer Medications as Prescribed: If your cat is prescribed any medications, such as eye drops or ointments, administer them exactly as directed by your vet. Ensure you complete the full course of treatment even if the cat appears to be improving.
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Monitor for Complications: Keep an eye out for signs of complications such as increased swelling, discharge, or loss of appetite. If any of these occur, contact your veterinarian promptly.
By following these steps, you can help ensure the best possible outcome for your cat's eye injury. Always remember that professional veterinary care is essential in managing and treating eye injuries effectively.