Applying antibiotic eye drops for cats is not an easy task. Every pet parent would agree with this fact. Like humans most cats do not like anything near their eyes, which can make administering eye drops very stressful and challenging.
All eye medication for cats comes either as liquid drops or as an ointment. Irrespective of the form, the process is tough. This blog outlines a 3 step process to apply eye drops correctly. Let's start from the basics:
When Do Pets Need Eye Drops?
There are certain common cat eye problems that may call for topical treatments, including:
- Infections
- Abrasions
- Ulcers
- Glaucoma
- Dry eye
Now answering the most important question.
How to Give Eye Drops to Your Cat?
Administering eye drops to your cat may be challenging, but with the right approach, it can be stress-free. Follow these simple steps to ensure your cat gets the care they need while staying calm and comfortable. Here is a three-step process:
Step 1: Preparation
Start by reading the instructions on your medication. It is crucial to follow all the instructions from your cat's veterinarian or the eye-drop manufacturer. If discharge is present, clean it with a sterile eyewash solution before administering the eye medication. Remove the cap from the medication bottle and place it in an accessible place.
Step 2: Restraint
Wrap your cat in a blanket or towel so only their head is out. Place the hindquarters against something so they cannot back away from you. You can also place the cat between your knees as you sit on the floor. The main goal is to immobilise the cat without harming it.
Step 3: Administer the eye drops
Use one hand to hold the head of your cat and pull down the lower eyelid – it’s best to use the hand that you don’t write with – you’ll need your writing hand to administer the drops.
Your hand should be placed underneath the jaw so that your thumb is on one side of the face and your fingers on the other. By doing this you will have an eyelid pouch right under the cat's eye.
Put the tip of the applicator right next to that pouch but be careful not to touch the cat's eye. Now squeeze the bottle of the applicator gently and quickly drop the prescribed number of drops into the pouch that you created.
What to do After Giving the Eye Drops to Your Cat
Once you administer eye drops to your cat you will need to restrain her so that the ointment can disperse across the eyelid if you let her go immediately following the administration she may rub her eyes and the medication will not work.
Pro tip: Always try to offer a distraction, like a snack, immediately following the procedure. Cats often blink or paw at the eye when receiving the drops. Many of the drops also have a bitter taste, which drains to the back of the mouth via the tear ducts. They can cause drooling or foaming by the cat. If the cat persists in rubbing the eye or if the eye appears more inflamed or red after the medication, contact your veterinarian before any further administration.
Eye drops vs. ointments:
There are two classes of eye medications that your pet may be put on: ointments and drops. The basic difference is that an ointment is a thicker medication that can be harder to apply. Ointments do blur vision for a little while after being applied, but they tend to stay in the eye longer, allowing the medication more time to do its job. Drops on the other hand are thinner, so they won't stay in your eye for as long as ointment, but they tend to be easier to put in.
Best Eye Drops for Cats
Keeping your cat’s eyes healthy is essential to their overall well-being. Whether it's for irritation, dryness, or infection, finding the best eye drops for your feline friend can make a world of difference in their comfort and vision. Here is a list of the best eye drops for cats:
OPTIXCARE EYE LUBRICANT
- Ideal to keep the pet's eyes moist
- Useful after anesthesia
- Easy to administer
Lubrithal Eye Gel
- Lubrithal Eye Gel Calms and hydrates the eye
- Lubrithal Eye Gel is a carbomer lubricating liquid to assist in hydrating and lubricating the tear film of the eye.
- Appropriate for all dogs and cats.
Petkin Jumbo Eye Wipes
- Gentle natural formula
- Removes dirt and tear marks,
- Convenient wipes
- Pack of 80 wipes.
Factors To Consider While Choosing Eye Drops for Cats
Apart from temporary conditions, some pets might require lifelong attention with drops, and ointments. There are several factors considered by veterinarians that will decide which medication best fits the eye issue that your pet is experiencing. These factors include:
- Availability of the medication
- Type of medication needed
- The frequency at which it needs to be administered
- Your pet's temperament
- The concern is being addressed.
Eye care for your cat need not be an intimidating procedure. Follow these three simple steps to administer eye drops safely and effectively keeping your cat calm and comfortable. Remember, patience and a gentle approach go a long way in building trust during care routines. If your cat still shows signs of being uncomfortable or with eye problems, consult your veterinarian for additional advice. A little effort goes a long way in keeping your kitty's eyes healthy and bright!
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