How to Treat an Animal's Eye Infection

Some eye drainage is normal in most animals. Excessive drainage, however, is not. Excessive drainage is often a sign that your pet is suffering from an eye infection. An eye infection is not necessarily a serious condition, unless it is left untreated. Untreated infections can cause permanent damage. If you suspect your pet has an eye infection, you should contact your vet immediately to discuss possible treatments. If you vet approves, you can use a home remedy to treat the infection and save yourself some time and money.

Things You'll Need

  • Cotton ball
  • Water
  • Artificial tears
  • Rag

Instructions

    • 1

      Use a clean cotton ball to wipe away drainage from around your pet's eye. Moisten the cotton ball under room temperature water and squeeze out the excess water. Use a separate cotton ball for each eye to avoid passing bacteria back and forth. Use gentle motions when wiping around the eye since it may be sensitive. Repeat this cleaning twice a day. If drainage is excessive, you can repeat more.

    • 2

      Use artificial tears in your pet's eyes. These can be found at your local pet store. Make sure you choose a brand that is specifically for your animal's species. Follow the package directions. The artificial tears will help keep your pet's eye moisturized. It will also help clean out bacteria from the eye.

    • 3

      Soak a clean rag under warm running water. Make sure the water is warm and not hot. Wring out the excess water from the rag so that is wet, but not drenched. Place the rag over your pet's eye and hold it there for 5 minutes at a time. This should be repeated daily. If you need to use a compress on both eyes, rinse the rag out thoroughly before applying it to the other eye to avoid passing bacteria between eyes.

    • 4

      Trim away any hair that may be hanging down in your pet's eyes. Loose hairs can carry bacteria and cause irritation. If you prefer not to trim the hair, keep it brushed back.