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Is alcohol in my cat's eye dangerous? Will it damage her sight?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Hi. My cat had I scratch on her head near the eyes, she probably got it while playing with one of the dogs. It wasn't bleeding but it was red, so I put a bit of alcohol on the wound but she blinked several times and moved. I'm not sure if it touched her eye or not. Is it dangerous if it did? Is it going to damage her sight? I washed her eye with water a few minutes after that but I could do it only for a second because she is very afraid of water and I'm not sure if that's enough.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 25th, 2018

Your poor kitty! Yes, alcohol in the eye is dangerous because it can cause severe irritation, discharge, rubbing of the eye, which in turn can lead to a corneal ulcer. I would see if she will allow you to rinse her eye again with cool water, and keep close watch on her eye. If you see any redness, she starts rubbing at it, the eye appears swollen, or there is any discharge, take her into a vet right away. Hopefully, however, she didn't get any in her eye and she is fine. In the future, do not use alcohol on her scratches. Not only does it burn, but it can be harmful to her. It's safe to clean any scratches with warm water and antiseptic soap. I hope this helps, good luck!

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