What should I do if a cat fights and its eye swells up? - briefly
If your cat's eye swells up after a fight, immediately contact your veterinarian. In the meantime, keep the cat calm and avoid any attempts to treat the injury yourself, as this could worsen the condition.
What should I do if a cat fights and its eye swells up? - in detail
If your cat has been in a fight and you notice that one of its eyes is swollen, it's crucial to take immediate action to ensure your pet's health and well-being. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what you should do:
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Stay Calm: Cats are sensitive to their owner's emotions. If you remain calm, it will help your cat stay calm as well. This is important because a stressed cat may become more aggressive or difficult to handle.
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Isolate the Cat: Separate your cat from other pets to prevent further injury and to allow for easier examination and treatment. Place your cat in a quiet, comfortable area where it can rest undisturbed.
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Assess the Injury: Gently examine the swollen eye. Look for any signs of discharge, redness, or obvious injuries like scratches or punctures. Be cautious and avoid applying pressure to the eye itself as this could cause further damage.
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Clean the Area: If there is any visible dirt or debris around the eye, gently clean it using a damp cloth or cotton pad soaked in warm water. Avoid using soap or any chemical substances as they can irritate the eye.
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Do Not Apply Ointment or Medication: Unless specifically instructed by your vet, do not apply any ointments, creams, or medications to the eye. Human medications are not suitable for cats and could cause more harm than good.
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Contact Your Veterinarian: Swelling in a cat's eye is always a cause for concern. It’s essential to contact your veterinarian immediately for advice tailored to your cat's specific situation. They may recommend bringing the cat in for an examination or provide guidance on how to manage the swelling at home until you can get to the clinic.
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Prevent Further Injury: While waiting to see the vet, make sure your cat cannot scratch or rub its eye further. You might need to use a soft collar or a cone to prevent this. Be mindful that cats may try to remove these, so keep an eye on them.
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Follow Veterinary Instructions: Your vet will provide specific instructions based on the severity of the swelling and any underlying injuries. This could include administering prescribed medication, applying a cold compress (if directed), or simply monitoring the cat's behavior and eating habits.
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Monitor for Changes: Keep an eye out for any changes in your cat’s condition, such as increased lethargy, loss of appetite, or discharge from the eye. These could indicate that the injury is worsening and requires immediate veterinary attention.
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Prevent Future Fights: If possible, identify what caused the fight and take steps to prevent future incidents. This might involve keeping your cat indoors, especially during peak fighting hours, or addressing any behavioral issues that could be leading to aggressive encounters with other cats.
In summary, if a cat's eye swells up after a fight, it’s crucial to stay calm, isolate the cat, clean the area gently, and contact your veterinarian promptly for professional advice and treatment. Taking these steps will help ensure that your cat receives the care it needs to recover safely.