My cat got a paw in its eye, what should I do? - briefly
If your cat has gotten a paw in its eye, it is important to remain calm and act quickly but gently. Rinse the affected area with lukewarm water and contact your veterinarian immediately for professional advice and treatment.
My cat got a paw in its eye, what should I do? - in detail
If your cat has gotten a paw in its eye, it's important to act promptly and carefully to prevent any potential damage or infection. Here are the steps you should follow:
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Remain Calm: Cats are very perceptive and can sense when you are anxious. Try to stay calm and composed to avoid stressing your cat further.
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Gently Restrain Your Cat: You may need a helper for this step. Gently wrap your cat in a towel, leaving the affected eye exposed. This will help keep your cat still while you examine and treat the eye.
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Inspect the Eye: Carefully look at the eye to assess the damage. Check for any obvious injuries like scratches or signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
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Clean the Area: Use a clean, damp cloth or cotton wool to gently wipe away any dirt or debris from around the eye. Be very careful not to touch the eye itself with the cloth.
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Flush the Eye: If there is any irritant in the eye, you will need to flush it out. Fill an eye dropper with lukewarm water (ensure the water is clean and safe for use) and gently squeeze a few drops into the corner of your cat's eye. Do not use any solutions or medications unless directed by a veterinarian.
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Monitor for Symptoms: Keep a close eye on your cat for the next few hours. Look out for signs of pain, such as excessive blinking, pawing at the eye, or unusual behavior. Also, monitor for any discharge from the eye or changes in its appearance.
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Contact Your Veterinarian: Even if you've followed these steps and your cat seems fine, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately. They can provide professional advice tailored to your cat’s specific needs and may recommend a visit to their clinic for a thorough examination.
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Avoid Self-Medication: Do not attempt to treat the eye with any over-the-counter medications or home remedies unless explicitly instructed by your veterinarian. Cats have unique physiology, and human medications can be harmful to them.
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Prevent Future Incidents: If possible, identify what caused your cat to get its paw in its eye. This could be anything from a playful swipe gone wrong to an underlying health issue causing your cat to paw at its face. Addressing the root cause can help prevent similar incidents in the future.
By following these steps and seeking professional advice, you can ensure that your cat's eye injury is treated appropriately and promptly.