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Can I use OTC drops for my stray kitten's infected, deformed eye?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | 2 lbs

I have a stray kitten. He looks like he has an eye infection. The problem is we cant tell if his eye is deformed or not there. Can I use OTC feline antibiotic drops?

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jeffrey Milner

Veterinarian

Published on August 5th, 2017

Ricardo has a severe infection in his eye that is not likely to clear up with anything you will find over the counter. He requires an examination by a veterinarian, who needs to make sure the eye is not ulcerated prior to medicating it. He will also likely want to verify that Ricardo does not have an upper respiratory tract infection, a common finding in small kittens who have discharge from the eyes. If this is the case, he will need oral antibiotics and immunoboosters as well. Hope this helps!

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    Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I would recommend taking your cat to the vet to get checked out. This will give your cat the best chance for recovery and for saving the eye. Your cat will probably need to be on a broad-spectrum antibiotic, and antiviral medication, and some sort of drops for the eyes. Sometimes these eyes can be saved, but sometimes if they are too severe they have to be removed. The sooner you get him in and evaluated, the more likely you will be able to save the eye. Best of luck.

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    Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I would recommend getting Ricardo checked out by a vet asap. The cornea of his eyes does not look normal. It may be an infection or ulceration but will need to diagnosed and treated promptly. OTC drops will not be sufficient.

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