Cat Eye Discharge: Effective Eye Drops for Treatment

Pussycat eyes often exhibit puslike discharge, which is typically a sign of conjunctivitis. This condition usually manifests as one or both eyes suddenly becoming difficult to open, with red, swollen, and itchy eyelids, severe tear stains, and the presence of puslike, white, yellow, or yellowgreen secretions in the corners of the eyes. Cats may frequently scratch at their eyes with their paws, which can exacerbate the infection.

It's important to note that cats are incredibly stoic, and due to their large pupils and irises, and smaller whites of the eyes, it's not uncommon for us to overlook their conjunctivitis until the infection is quite severe. Therefore, when a cat's eyes show clear symptoms, it usually indicates that the infection has reached a significant level.

Signs of Cat Conjunctivitis:

Excessive tearing, with numerous tear stains and puslike discharge in the corners of the eyes.

One or both eyes may become red, swollen, and difficult to open.

Photophobia and frequent blinking.

Repeatedly scratching at the eyes with paws.

Conjunctival hyperemia and a visibly enlarged eye ball.

Causes of Cat Conjunctivitis:

Foreign Body Irritation:

Cats' eyes can become infected if they come into contact with irritants such as shampoo, dust, detergents, hair, pollen, and other foreign bodies. If these irritants are not promptly removed, they can lead to conjunctivitis and an inflammatory response.

Trauma:

When a cat's eye is struck or scratched by a foreign object, it can cause mucosal rupture, leading to localized inflammation if not treated promptly. This can result in red, swollen eyes with excessive secretions.

Pathogen Infection:

Herpesvirus (Feline Rhinotracheitis): Common in kittens, especially those aged 8 to 12 weeks. Cats with this virus often exhibit upper respiratory symptoms such as sneezing, nasal discharge, coughing, fever, loss of appetite, and may also show signs of conjunctivitis, including red, swollen eyes, excessive tearing, and discharge. In severe cases, ulcers on the conjunctiva or cornea can occur, leading to eyelid adhesions, chronic epiphora, and even blindness.

Feline Calicivirus: Also prevalent in kittens, this virus can cause conjunctivitis, upper respiratory infections, oral ulcers, and arthritis.

Chlamydia: This virus often presents with conjunctivitis, characterized by excessive eye discharge and difficulty opening the eyes. Cats may also exhibit symptoms such as sneezing and mild fever.

Treatment Methods for Cat Conjunctivitis:

Antibacterial Eye Drops:

In cases of bacterial conjunctivitis caused by trauma or foreign body irritation, antibiotic eye drops such as Beranming (Neomycin Sulfate Eye Drops) can be used.

Neomycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic with a broad spectrum of activity, effective against most Gramnegative bacilli such as Escherichia coli, Proteus, and Salmonella, and moderately sensitive to Staphylococcus aureus. Before use, it's important to clean the eye of any discharge to enhance the drug's efficacy. This can be done with a 3% boric acid or 1% alum solution, or even with normal saline if conditions are limited.

Seek Veterinary Care:

If a cat shows symptoms of conjunctivitis along with other obvious symptoms such as nasal discharge, sneezing, fever, and loss of appetite, it may indicate a viral infection. It is essential to seek veterinary treatment promptly.

Prevent Scratchings:

During home treatment, it's important to fit the cat with an Elizabethan collar to prevent it from scratching its eyes.

Maintain Eye Hygiene:

Pay attention to the cat's eye hygiene. If you notice any inflammatory discharge in the corners of the eyes, promptly clean it with normal saline or alcoholfree wet wipes to keep the eyes moist and prevent adhesions.