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My cat's eye infection isn't improving. What to do before vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Birman | Female | spayed | 2 lbs

My cat has a bad case of conjunctivitis. The vet has prescribed an ointment to be applied to the eyes twice daily for 8 days. I have followed that advice however it's been 11 days no and there has been no improvement. I am going back to the vet the day after tomorrow but I am worried the infection will worsen or deteriorate my cats eyesight. Any advice in the meantime before seeing the vet would be great.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 12th, 2020

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Nala. I am glad that she will see her veterinarian again. She will likely need eye tests to try to get a more accurate diagnosis on her eyes. She could have a corneal ulcer (scratch across the surface of her eye), an upper respiratory tract infection that involves the eyes or even inflammation within the eye of itself. Rarely a patient can experience a drug reaction. So this is possible if the eyes got worse after applying the ointment. In the meantime, keep the eyes clear of any discharge. Wipe it away gently with a warm washcloth. If she is pawing at the eyes, place an E-collar on her to prevent her from causing further damage. I hope this information helps!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 13th, 2020

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I am sorry to hear Nala isn't feeling well. If the eye has gotten worse, I would call to see if your vet can get you in today instead of waiting until tomorrow. Let them know that the eye looks worse after treatment. They may need to change her medications or add different medications to help her recover. I would also ask about an E-collar to prevent further damage. Even if you aren't seeing her paw at her eye, she might be when you aren't watching her and that can cause further damage. With a different treatment, there is a chance she will improve and not lose her eyesight. I can't say that for sure without knowing what is going on, but she needs to be seen again as soon as possible. Good luck and kisses to Nala!

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on July 31st, 2019

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I would recommend that you contact the veterinarian who saw your kitten initially to see what they are expecting at this point based on their specific diagnosis. In general, if this was just a bacterial infection being treated with eye drops, it should already be getting better. If it is not, it is time for re-evaluation of this by a veterinarian. They would be able to look at this more closely and recommend therapy accordingly. That may mean a different medication. Best of luck!

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