How to Take Care of a Kitten With an Eye Infection

Kittens can develop viral or bacterial eye infections.

There are several viral and bacterial pathogens that cause eye infections in kittens. Feline herpes is one common cause. In the case of herpes, sometimes treatment consists of both antiviral and antibiotics because of secondary bacterial infections. Treating a kitten with the right medications, combined with supportive home care, will help the kitten recover more quickly.

Things You'll Need

• Antibacterial or antiviral medicines
• Sterile cloths
• Warm, clean bedding
• Vet-recommended kitten food

Instructions

1. Take the kitten to a veterinarian for a diagnosis. It's important to distinguish if the infection is caused by a virus, a bacteria or both, so that you can treat it with the right medications. Only a veterinarian can accurately make this diagnosis.

2. Create a clean comfortable area for the kitten, separate from other household pets. Many eye infections are contagious. Kittens with infections will appreciate warm, clean bedding and extra loving care as they recover.

3. Apply eye medication as recommended. To apply eye medicine, gently hold the kitten on your lap, face up. Grasp the back of its neck, its scruff, to relax the kitten and keep the head steady. Take a warm damp, sterile cloth and wipe the kitten's eyes. Gently add the drops, or ointment, to the eye. (Note: In some cases, a veterinarian may also put a kitten on oral antibiotics or oral anti-viral medicines. Be sure to give the recommended dosage as required.)

4. Check the kitten's eyes often throughout the day. If they become gummy with discharge, carefully wash them with a damp warm cloth. If the eye discharge dries, it can seal the lids shut--holding the infection in--or dry particles may scratch the kitten's eye.

5. Feed the kitten a high-quality, vet-recommended kitten food and make sure it always has access to water. Proper nutrition will help the kitten heal more quickly.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash your hands after handling ill kittens to prevent spreading the infection. Discard used cloths or launder them in hot water with bleach.

• According to MarVistaVet.com, kittens may experience respiratory congestion, which could affect its appetite. If a kitten stops eating or drinking, take it to a vet as soon as possible.

References

• Mar Vista Animal Clinic: Viral Conjunctivitis
• Pet Education: Conjunctivitis in Cats

Resources

• Drs. Foster and Smith: Example of Antibiotic Eye Ointment