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Help! My kitten has swollen, red, mucus eyes. What can I do at home?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Bobtail | Female | unspayed | 4 months and 28 days old | 15 lbs

My baby is roughly 20 weeks old. I’ve had issues with her whole litter. My momma cat snuck out of the house (through the fireplace) and breezes with an unknown stray cat. Three of the kittens died within the first couple of weeks and now I’m afraid for Marie (pictured). I don’t currently have money for the vet so I’m hoping you can tell me how to treat this at home. I’ve been cleaning daily to remove the build up. Eyes are swollen, red, leak mucus (sometimes red liquid). Still has appetite.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on January 2nd, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Marie! The most common cause of swollen conjunctiva and raised third eye lids are viral infections, most commonly feline herpes. We can only treat the secondary bacterial infections associated with the viral infection. Some cats are chronically affected by herpes, while others have flare ups with stress. Marie should see a Vet to be sure there are no scratches on her eye and to have a safe antibiotic eye ointment prescribed. You can try calling your local SPCA to see if they offer a low cost Veterinary Clinic. I hope this helps and I wish Marie a speedy recovery!

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