Cats / Getting Started
Cats are largely self-sufficient when it comes to eye hygiene, but there are situations where a little help from you goes a long way, whether that means applying prescribed medication or simply keepin
Cats are largely self-sufficient when it comes to eye hygiene, but there are situations where a little help from you goes a long way, whether that means applying prescribed medication or simply keeping the fur around the eyes clean.
If your vet prescribes eye drops or ointment, do not expect it to be effortless. Cats are not natural fans of having their eyes handled, so it helps to work calmly, support the head gently, and approach from the side rather than straight on. Ask your vet's practice to demonstrate the technique if you are unsure.
Most cats never need this kind of help. The exception is flat-faced breeds such as Persians, whose distinctive skull shape often causes tears to overflow rather than drain away properly, leading to constant watering and staining down the face.
For these cats, gently wipe the area with a cotton wool ball dampened with clean water or a touch of baby oil, using a fresh ball for each eye, then pat dry with a soft tissue. Never let the cotton wool touch the eyeball itself; it will hurt, and your cat will remember the experience and become harder to handle next time.
Article content © Ravi Teja. All rights reserved.
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