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How to treat a kitten with eye discharge and a runny nose at home?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | unspayed

Hi, my kitten is maybe a few weeks old and her left eye has some discharge and her left nostril is runny.. what can I do to treat her at home?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 24th, 2017

Respiratory infections and conjunctivitis are common in kittens are often viral induced such as herpes. You can apply a warm compress to the eyes and rinse them with saline eye wash. You can use the steam from a warm shower to help break up the congestion. You may need to see a vet for an antiviral to add to the food or antibiotics for a secodnary bacterial infection

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 17th, 2018

    I am sorry to hear about your kitten! Unfortunately I think you have done all the at-home treatment you can for this kitty and she truly needs veterinary care. She likely has an upper respiratory infection and an eye infection that requires prescription medication you can only get from a vet. You can read more about these issues at http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=613 and http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=1327 . For ideas on how to afford veterinary care you can refer to this website: http://m.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_veterinary_care.html Best of luck to you and your kitty!

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    Answered By Sarah Derksen, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 24th, 2018

    Hi. Unfortunately there arent any home remedies other then placing in a steamed up bathroom a few times a day, but that doesn't treat the problem. Kittens usually get upper respiratory infections from mom or other kittens/cats. They can be viral or bacterial. They need treatment by your veterinarian. They can develop in to pneumonia in some patients. Good luck.

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