What to Do if a Kitten's Eye Is Sealed Shut

It is common for kittens to suffer from various upper respiratory infections that can include eye ailments, such as discharge, swelling and the inability to open the eye. With care at home and a diagnosis from a veterinarian, your kitten can recover quickly.

  1. Discharge

    • Your kitten might have an infection if you notice a clear or pus-like discharge that is sticky, and accompanied with redness and swelling. Use a warm damp cloth to remove gently any crusted on discharge that might be preventing your kitten's eye from opening.

    Pain

    • If your kitten is squinting due to pain, you can use a saline solution to irrigate your kitten's eye to make sure that there is no debris causing the irritation. Do not rub your kitten's eye to prevent any potential further injury.

    See a Veterinarian

    • If your kitten's eye is not open, bright and clear within a day of the start of the symptoms, take him to a veterinarian for treatment. Your veterinarian has the proper instruments to diagnose and treat your kitten's ailment, as well as the ability to prescribe any possible needed medication for you to administer at home.