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My kitten has a puffy eye with discharge and keeps rubbing it. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Longhair | Female | unspayed | 2 lbs

I rescued a kitten last week and she had her first vet visit last Thursday. Today we noticed her left eye has discharge with puffy eye. She is licking her paw and rubbing it.

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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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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    Answered By Rebecca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I would suggest takin Gemma back to the vet. She may have conjunctivitis or could have a scratch or ulcer starting on her eye. It could be early stages of feline upper respiratory complexes causing her itchy eyes. Do not use otc eye drops in her eyes.

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    Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Congrats on your new addition! There are several things that can cause a kitten's eye to be puffy, such as an infection or a scratch/irritant to the cornea. As she is rubbing it and it seems uncomfortable for her, I would recommend she be seen by her regular veterinarian to determine the underlying cause for her eye issue, have any necessary testing done (eye stain, etc.), and get started on any treatment (antibiotic eye drops, anti-inflammatory) that may be needed. Good luck!

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