Reviewed by Dr. Terry White, DVM
If you are noticing that your tiny fur baby’s eyes look swollen, red, or teary, it can be worrisome, especially when you’re unsure of the cause or the proper steps to take.
You might be wondering whether your kitten’s eye infection is serious enough to require veterinary attention or if it’s something you can manage at home.
In this guide, we’ll break down the common symptoms of kitten eye infections, discuss the most likely causes, and provide advice on how to treat kitten eye infections at home and when to see a vet.
Common Symptoms of Kitten Eye Infections
One of the first signs that something is wrong with your kitten’s eye is swelling or redness. Often, kitten parents notice discharge coming from the kitten’s eye—this discharge can be clear, yellow, or even green. In some cases, the infected eye may appear cloudy or teary.
Here are the most common symptoms of a kitten eye infection:
Redness around the eye
Swollen eyelids
Yellow or green discharge
Excessive tearing
Cloudy or hazy appearance of the eye
Squinting or rubbing the eyes frequently
If you’ve noticed one or more of these signs in your kitten, it’s important to monitor their condition closely. Sometimes, minor eye issues can clear up on their own, but persistent symptoms may indicate a more serious problem, such as an infection.
Common Causes of Kitten Eye Infections
Understanding the cause of your kitten’s eye infection can help guide treatment and prevent future occurrences. Kitten eye infections are commonly linked to upper respiratory infections, which can be caused by viruses or bacteria.
Here are some of the most common causes of eye infections in kittens:
Feline Herpesvirus: This virus is a common culprit behind upper respiratory infections and conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eye’s outer membrane). Kittens often contract it from their mother or other cats.
Bacterial Infections: Bacteria such as Chlamydia or Mycoplasma can lead to infections in kittens’ eyes, often as a secondary infection to a viral illness.
Foreign Bodies: Sometimes, a speck of dust, dirt, or a tiny object gets into a kitten’s eye, causing irritation and eventually infection.
Trauma: Kittens can be playful and sometimes accidentally scratch their eye, leading to inflammation or infection.
If you’re wondering, “How did my kitten get this infection?” the cause is often linked to their overall immune health and exposure to other sick animals. Kittens with poor health are more likely to develop eye infections, especially if they already have respiratory symptoms like sneezing or coughing.
How to Treat Kitten Eye Infections at Home
One of the first questions you might be asking is whether your can treat your kitten’s eye infection at home. For minor cases, there are a few things you can do to provide relief for your kitten and help clear up the infection.
Keep the Eye Clean: Use a warm, damp cloth to gently wipe away any discharge from the infected eye. Be sure to use a separate cloth for each eye if both are affected to avoid spreading the infection.
Saline Solution: Over-the-counter saline solution (the same kind used for contact lenses) can be helpful in rinsing out your kitten’s eyes and reducing irritation. A few drops can flush out debris and soothe the infection.
Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress to the infected eye can help reduce swelling and clear away discharge. Be sure not to press too hard or irritate the eye further.
While these methods can help alleviate symptoms, they may not be enough to cure the infection, especially if it’s caused by a bacterial or viral infection. If the symptoms persist or worsen, it’s time to seek veterinary care.
When to See a Vet
Many pet owners hesitate to bring their kitten to the vet for an eye infection, hoping it will resolve on its own. However, there are certain situations where it’s important to consult with a vet to prevent complications.
If your kitten shows any of the following signs, it’s best to get professional treatment:
Eye discharge that is thick, yellow, or green: This often indicates a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics.
Severe swelling or inability to open the eye: This could mean the infection has spread or become more severe.
Symptoms lasting more than 48 hours: If home care doesn’t improve the condition within two days, your kitten likely needs medical treatment.
A vet may prescribe medicated eye drops or ointment to treat bacterial infections. For viral infections like feline herpesvirus, antiviral medications may be necessary to prevent future flare-ups.
Can I Prevent My Kitten from Getting Eye Infections?
Preventing eye infections in kittens can be tricky, especially if they are prone to upper respiratory infections. However, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the chances of future infections:
Tip #1. Keep Your Kitten Vaccinated
Ensure your kitten is up-to-date on vaccinations, including those that protect against common viruses that can cause eye infections.
Tip #2. Regular Vet Check-ups
Frequent visits to the vet can catch early signs of illness before they develop into serious infections.
Tip #3. Maintain a Clean Environment
Keep your kitten’s living space clean and free of irritants such as dust or allergens, which can contribute to eye irritation.
Tip #4. Monitor Other Pets
If you have multiple cats, be sure to keep an eye on their health as well. If one cat develops an eye infection, it’s best to isolate them from other pets to prevent spreading it.
How Much Will Kitten Eye Infection Treatment Cost?
One common concern among pet owners is the cost of treating a kitten’s eye infection. If you’re worried about vet bills, the good news is that many eye infections can be treated with relatively inexpensive medications like antibiotic eye drops or ointments.
However, the cost can vary depending on the severity of the infection and any additional treatments needed. In some cases, more extensive testing or specialized medications may increase the cost. It’s always a good idea to ask your vet for an estimate before starting treatment to avoid any surprises.
Are You Seeing Your Kitten with Red Eyes or Discharge?
We can help! EverPal's Medical Director, Dr. Terry White, brings 40 years of experience and is ready to meet your fur baby same-day for any concerns about your kitten's health. Each visit is twice as long as your typical in-office visit, allowing our vet to understand your dog's unique needs and thoroughly explain the best treatment plan. Medications can be prescribed and delivered overnight.
Experience better vet care with maximum comfort for your fur baby. Schedule your online vet visit today.
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