Terramycin Antibiotic Ophthalmic Ointment for Cats

Terramycin ophthalmic ointment is among the most common antibiotics used to treat bacterial eye infections in cats, according to the vetinfo.com. If left untreated a cat eye infection can result in corneal ulcers and other conditions that can cause the animal to lose the sight in the infected eye. A veterinarian should diagnosis the cat̵7;s eye infection to determine the cause--bacterial, viral or fungus--before any treatment begins.

  1. Symptoms of Eye Infections

    • Cats often exhibit redness and a discharge when an eye infection is present. In severe cases the discharge can form a matter on the eye that causes the eye to remain closed. Other symptoms include frequent pawing or rubbing of the eyes and face.

    Diagnosis

    • The veterinarian will make an external examination of the eye along with an internal exam using an opthalmascope. A tear test may also be performed. The examination and testing is designed to determine if the infection is caused by a virus, fungus or bacteria. Bacterial infections are the most common and usually treated with terramycin ophthalmic ointment, according to the vetinfo.com.

    Treatment

    • Terramycin ophthalmic ointment is applied topically to the upper eyelid up to four times per day. Follow the veterinarian̵7;s instructions for the application and dosage of the ointment. Allergic reactions are possible but rare. The pet owner should monitor the cat for additional swelling of the eye and systemic reactions, such as sleepiness and lack of energy.

    Effectiveness

    • Terramycin is effective against most strains of bacteria and is considered safe for use in cats. Pet owners should monitor the cat for recurrent or continual infections that may indicate the presence of bacteria that has gained a resistance to terramycin.

    The Ointment

    • Terramycin ointments are typically marketed in small tubes about two inches long and containing 1/8 oz. of the medicine. The ointment does not require refrigeration, but should be kept at room temperature. Terramycin ophthalmic ointment can be legally acquired without a prescription.