My new kitten has watery eyes. Is it an infection or contagious?

Question

We were given a new kitten of 4 months. She’s has fused elbows but can get around fine. Her eyes are watery and when washed with warm water they tissue looks an off colour. Should I be concerned that this may be infectious? I have 3 children and another kitten. She was the runt of the litter and the person who gave us her said she was checked by a vet and said she would manage in her own way. I am just concerned that the kids get attached to her and there is something going on. Thanks. Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | unspayed | 4 months and 14 days old

Makenzie Kurth, DVM · Accepted Answer

I have small children too so I understand your concern! We can never guarantee that something underlying isn’t going on- especially in runts. If she is eating and happy, those are both great signs. If she is squinting either or both eyes, I’d say this little darling has herpes virus. It is very common (the vast majority of cats have it and likely your other cat has had it before too. It is NOT transmissible to people). It tends to be a problem in kittens and sometimes in older cats during times of illness or stress. If she is squinting, you’ll need to see the vet to get the right eye ointment/drops for her. If the eyes don’t seem to bother her (no squinting, thick discharge, etc) then perhaps it is a problem with tear drainage (often nothing is done about this) or something else entirely. Hope this helps!

My new kitten has watery eyes. Is it an infection or contagious?

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