Sometimes kittens will develop crusted and matted eyes. Often this occurs in newly born kitten because the eyes are becoming used to seeing. Then again, this may be the result of a bacteria or viral infection. It's important to get the kitten to a veterinarian to determine the cause of the crusted and matted eyes. However, in order to help the kitten find relief from the discomfort there is a home remedy that may work before the actual appointment with the veterinarian.
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Using a warm compress
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Use a clean and warm cloth to gently wipe the crust from the kitten's eyes. Be sure it is only gook of some sort that is matted around the eye or in the corners, and not foreign objects. Rinse the cloth repeatedly with warm water and wring out before wiping the eyes again. Be sure there is no soap or chemical on the cloth that may sting the eye or cause damage. Sometimes holding the warm compress onto the eyes for a few minutes may help loosen the crust and hopefully make it easier to wipe away. The warm compress may also be soothing to the discomfort the kitten is feeling.
Other possibilities
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Repeat using the warm cloth a couple of times a day or as often as needed. If the kitten's eyes are covered in hair, it is a good idea to carefully trim this so the eye can heal faster and prevent further complications. If the eyes continue to become crusted and matted it may be time to visit the veterinarian. Kittens can sometimes get conjunctivitis or some other eye illness that may only get well if treated with a prescribed antibiotic and eye ointment. A home remedy may not take care of this if there is an object embedded in the eye or if the cornea has ripped or become damaged.
Prevention
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Keep a watch on the other kittens if there is a litter. Eye infections can be contagious. Although it is important to keep kittens close to their mother for warmth, growth and nourishment purposes, it is a good idea to keep the areas where the kittens stay, clean at all times. Change padding and blankets often. Use a clean cloth to wipe down the area. Kittens who are nursing may wiggle around, which may allow their eyes to come in contact with the mother's nipples. Be sure to gently wipe the mother's nipples with warm water to keep them clean and safe for the other kittens. Soap is not recommend, only warm water as soap can sometimes dry out nipples and cause bleeding or cracking.
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