The Treatments for Red Swollen Eyes in Cats

Eye disorders and infections in cats range from mild to severe, and treatments for red, swollen eyes in cats depend upon the primary cause of the eye irritation. Redness and swelling of the eyes are symptoms associated with several cat eye disorders. There are several methods of prevention and treatment readily available to cat owners today. Being able to tell the differences between mild, moderate and severe feline ocular disorders will determine which treatment is most-effective.

  1. Dust and Particles

    • Daily eye cleansers treat mild cases of red, swollen eyes in cats caused by foreign substances, such as dust particles. Daily cleaning requires one cotton ball for each eye and one to soak up clean warm water -- just enough in one cotton ball to drizzle onto the other two. Saline solution is preferable to commercial washes unless a veterinarian prescribes them. Saline solution is made by combining 1/4 teaspoon table salt with 1 cup room temperature water. Clean the eyes normally three to four times a day.

    Allergies and Pest Control

    • Treatments for moderate cases of red swollen eyes in cats commonly associated with allergies include a combination of daily eye care and weekly bedding changes. Reduce potential allergens with routine pest control and feeding quality non-chicken-based foods that boost the immune system. Benadryl dosages can be recommended by your cat's veterinarian to reduce symptoms associated with common allergies as well. Cortisone treatments are prescribed for severe cases of allergic reactions.

    Bacteria and Viruses

    • Eye redness and swelling associated with conjunctivitis and Chlamydia are only treatable with topical antibiotics. Herpes is a virus that can lay dormant for years that also causes red, swollen eyes. Treatment can vary depending on the veterinarian. However, some cat owners feel comfortable treating symptoms of herpes with l-lysine that can be purchased at health food stores. Suggested dosage is 500 milligrams twice a day for five days.

    Considerations

    • Ocular redness and swelling associated with injury and ulcers in one or more parts of the cat̵7;s eye require medical attention. Other potential causes of redness and swelling in the eyes include glaucoma, bulging eye and eye protrusions require surgery for treatment. If you suspect your cat of suffering from a serious eye illness or injury, contact your veterinarian for treatment before administering at-home care.