My newborn kitten has a swollen, bulging, crusty eye. What to do?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Our cat recently had kittens a few days ago. Today I noticed one of the kitten's eye is swollen and buldging out and has some crusty discharge on it. Their eyes have not opened yet so how can I treat them? We plan to take the kitten to a vet, but I wanted to see if I could help treat the kitten at all. Thanks so much, Ashley
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on July 13th, 2019
Hi Ashley. I see what you mean about the eye bulging. This cannot be treated at home, you will need to take her into a vet. Do not try to open the eye, it could cause serious damage. I'd take her into a vet asap.
6Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on March 18th, 2018
Please take a warm damp cloth and clean the discharge away. This looks likes the infection is in or near her eyes. Please take her in tomorrow to get treatment so she doesn’t get worse. She’s so young I’m worried she could get worse quickly, and perhaps lose sight in that eye. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Catty.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on August 9th, 2017
I am so sorry to hear that Lady is experiencing these problems with her eyes. Thank you for providing an excellent pictures, it seems painful (eyes closed) and has discharge. Start by placing an e-collar or cone on Lady to prevent scratching or rubbing. If the eye is infected it is likely painful, this will prompt Lady to scratch or rub her eye. However, this could inflict further damage, infection or even an ulceration. Because eye concerns with cats, such as infections, corneal ulcerations, cataracts and glaucoma, can progress rapidly to blindness I would have her examined by your veterinarian to diagnose the issue. The precise medication can then be dispensed by your veterinarian. If Costs are an issue at the moment try this resource to help wil payments options and tips based on where you live http://m.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_pet.html Please do not attempt to treat an eye infection at home with any over the counter medications, drops or ointments. This can lead to permanent damage and unnecessary pain or discomfort. I hope this answer was helpful and that Lady feels better soon. Warmest regards to you both!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on April 12th, 2017
Eye infections are very common in kittens, many will end up blind if left untreated, you need to take her to the vet ASAP in order to get an eye ointment called Teramycin which usually works very well for the treatment of this problem. she may also need to take oral antibiotics for a couple weeks.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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