What to do if one eye of the cat is watery and squinting? - briefly
If you notice that your cat has one eye that is watery and squinting, it is important to take prompt action as this could indicate an underlying issue such as an infection or irritation. Gently clean the area around the affected eye with a damp cloth and consult your veterinarian immediately for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment.
What to do if one eye of the cat is watery and squinting? - in detail
If you notice that your cat has a watery and squinting eye, it's important to take prompt action as this can indicate an underlying health issue. Here are the steps you should follow:
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Observe the Symptoms: Carefully observe the affected eye for any additional symptoms such as redness, swelling, discharge, or changes in eye color. Also, note if your cat is pawing at the eye or rubbing it against objects.
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Check for Foreign Objects: Gently lift your cat's eyelid and look for any foreign objects like grass seeds, dust, or hair that might be causing irritation. If you find anything, carefully remove it using a damp cotton swab or tissue.
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Clean the Eye: Use a clean, wet cloth to gently wipe away any discharge from your cat's eye. Be careful not to apply pressure as this could cause further discomfort.
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Apply Warm Compress: Soak a clean cloth in warm water and place it over your cat's closed eye for a few minutes. This can help to relieve pain and reduce swelling. Ensure the cloth is not too hot to avoid burning your cat's skin.
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Contact Your Veterinarian: Even if you manage to remove a foreign object or see some improvement after cleaning, it's crucial to contact your veterinarian for further advice. A watery and squinting eye can be a sign of various conditions including conjunctivitis, glaucoma, corneal ulcers, or even more serious issues like feline herpesvirus or FIV.
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Do Not Use Human Eye Drops: Never administer human eye drops to your cat without consulting a veterinarian first. Some human medications can be toxic to cats and may cause further damage.
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Keep Your Cat Calm: Try to keep your cat calm and prevent it from rubbing or scratching at the affected eye. You might need to use an Elizabethan collar (e-collar) to restrict access to the eye area.
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Follow Veterinarian's Instructions: If your veterinarian prescribes medication, ensure you follow the instructions carefully and complete the full course of treatment. Regularly check your cat's eye for any changes or worsening symptoms.
By taking these steps, you can help alleviate your cat's discomfort and ensure that it receives the proper care needed to address the underlying issue.