How to Care for the Eyes of Persian Cats

Persian cats are a well-known breed and valued by many for its flat face and big eyes. The structure of a Persian cat's face, however, is a reason this breed is prone to eye (and nose) problems. The large surface of a Persian cat's eyes isn't protected very well and it's common for the fur beneath the eyes to stain and even get crusty. Through daily eye care, however, you can diminish this and keep your Persian cat's eyes healthier and cleaner.

Things You'll Need

  • Soft clean cloths (or cotton balls)
  • Tear stain remover (pads or bottled liquid)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wash your hands well with soap and water. Bacteria or viruses on your hands can transfer to your cat's eyes.

    • 2

      Dampen a soft, clean cloth or cotton ball in warm water. Place your Persian on a table or in your lap--whichever is most comfortable and soothing for the cat.

    • 3

      Gently wipe the cloth or wet cotton ball over the cat's eyes, working from the inside corner of the eye (the area closest to the nose) towards the outside. Repeat this with another clean wet cloth or cotton ball, if there is a lot of discharge or crusting around the eye. Keep wiping the eyes, switching to a fresh damp cloth or cotton ball after each swipe (to prevent accidentally pushing bacteria or debris into the eye by re-using a soiled cloth or cotton ball) until all discharge and debris are gone.

    • 4

      Remove tear stains with a safe tear-stain remover. Pet supply stores usually offer many kinds of tear-stain removers--choose the safest you can find. Some are all purpose eye cleansers, which you can wipe over the complete eye. Other eye stain removers contain chemicals that will irritate the eye--you must use these only on the stained fur and avoid the eye, which isn't always easy. According to purfurvid.com, you may need to use a cleaner twice a day to see good results.

    • 5

      Take your Persian cat to your veterinarian if the cat is squinting, the eye looks red or the cat seems to be in discomfort. According to purfurvid.com, Persian cats are prone to scratches or ulcers in their eyes, which require special treatment. A vet can also rule out viral or bacterial infection, or prescribe medicines for these if needed.