What to do if a cat's eye is swollen and weeping? - briefly
If your cat's eye is swollen and weeping, it could be due to an infection, injury, or allergic reaction. Immediately consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment, as delaying care can lead to serious complications such as vision loss.
What to do if a cat's eye is swollen and weeping? - in detail
If you notice that your cat's eye is swollen and weeping, it could be an indication of an infection or injury. Here are the steps you should take:
-
Stay Calm: Cats are very perceptive and can sense when their owners are anxious. Remain calm to avoid stressing your cat further.
-
Examine the Eye: Gently examine the eye to determine the cause of the swelling and weeping. Look for any signs of injury, such as a scratch or foreign object. Also, check for discharge—it could be clear, yellowish, or greenish, which can indicate different types of infections.
-
Clean the Area: Use a clean, damp cloth to gently wipe away any discharge from around the eye. Be very careful not to touch the eye itself. Avoid using soap or other chemicals, as they can cause irritation.
-
Contact Your Veterinarian: Immediately contact your veterinarian for advice. Describe the symptoms you've observed and follow their instructions. They may ask you to bring your cat in for a thorough examination.
-
Prevent Further Irritation: Keep your cat from rubbing its eye, as this can cause further irritation or injury. You might need to use an Elizabethan collar (e-collar) to prevent this.
-
Do Not Use Human Eye Drops: Never administer human eye drops to your cat without veterinary approval. Human medications can be toxic to cats and could worsen the condition.
-
Follow Veterinary Advice: Your vet may prescribe antibiotic ointments or drops if an infection is suspected. Always follow their advice on administration and dosage, and complete the full course of treatment even if your cat's eye seems to be improving.
-
Monitor for Other Symptoms: While you wait for veterinary care, monitor your cat for other symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or unusual behavior. These could indicate a more serious underlying issue.
-
Keep the Environment Clean: Ensure that your cat's environment is clean to prevent reinfection. Regularly wash bedding and litter trays with pet-safe disinfectants.
-
Prevent Future Issues: Once the immediate problem has been addressed, consider steps to prevent future eye issues. This might include regular grooming to remove mats and tangles that could cause irritation, and keeping your cat indoors to minimize exposure to outdoor hazards.
By following these steps, you can help ensure your cat receives the care it needs for a swollen and weeping eye. Always remember that prompt veterinary attention is crucial for your pet's health and well-being.