What to do if a cat scratched your eye? - briefly
Immediately rinse the eye gently with clean water or saline solution and seek urgent medical attention to prevent infection or further damage.
What to do if a cat scratched your eye? - in detail
If a cat scratches your eye, immediate and careful action is crucial to prevent complications such as infection or corneal damage. First, avoid rubbing or touching the affected eye, as this can exacerbate the injury. Rinse the eye gently with clean, lukewarm water or a sterile saline solution to remove any debris or contaminants. Use a clean cup or an eye wash kit, tilting your head to the side and allowing the liquid to flow over the eye. Blink several times to help flush out any particles. If you wear contact lenses, remove them immediately to avoid further irritation. After rinsing, assess the severity of the injury. If there is significant pain, redness, swelling, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light, seek urgent medical attention from an ophthalmologist or visit the nearest emergency room. Do not attempt to self-diagnose or treat the injury with over-the-counter medications without professional guidance. In the meantime, protect the eye from further exposure by wearing sunglasses or covering it with a clean, non-adhesive patch. Inform the healthcare provider about the incident, including details about the cat’s vaccination status, as cat scratches can transmit bacteria like Bartonella henselae, which causes cat scratch disease. Follow the doctor’s instructions carefully, which may include antibiotic eye drops or ointments to prevent infection. Monitor the eye for any worsening symptoms and attend follow-up appointments as recommended. Prevent future incidents by handling cats gently, trimming their nails regularly, and avoiding situations where they may feel threatened or defensive.