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What to do if kitten got flea shampoo in eyes and they're swollen?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 3 months and 17 days old | 2 lbs

I showered my kitten 3 1/2 months with a Cat Flea And Tick Shampoo and I think some went in her eyes. Because they are a little swollen and red and she can't open them quite right. And her skin was feeling warm/hot so i washed/showered her again with only water and it is not hot any more. What should I do? About the eyes?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Barry, BVSc, MRCVS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 27th, 2017

Poor Tikiii, It could have been from the shampoo causing eye irritation. You can use warm water to wash her eyes (or you can purchase eye wash solution for humans from the drug store) to rinse her eyes. They should return to normal in 24hrs, but if she is still holding them shut or they look irritated still, you should take her to the vet and they might test her for injury to her corneas (outer surface of the eye) called a corneal ulcer. A simple eye drop that is soothing and safe is called "BLINK CONTACTS" - this is also available a the drug store.

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    Answered By Rebeccah Wood

    Licensed Veterinary Technician, Registered Laboratory Animal Technologist

    Published on July 31st, 2017

    What a cute little kitten! Gemma may have a touch of conjunctivitis (an inflammation of the pink tissues in the eye), which is usually caused by a virus or bacteria. This is really common in young kittens, and does require a visit to your vet. You might consider just calling them up as she was just there on Thursday - they may be able to squeeze you in soon. Conjunctivitis usually requires a topical antibiotic twice daily to prevent damage to the eye, especially if she's pawing at it. I recommend giving your vet a call so Gemma can feel better soon :)

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