Home Remedies For Eye Infections In Cats

Cats are susceptible to a variety of eye infections, which occur when bacteria, viruses, or fungi enter the eye. Other causes can include illness, wounds, or foreign objects getting into the eye. General symptoms of an eye infection include discharge, swelling or redness, fever, and a change in the cat's temperament. While veterinary treatment is always recommended, there are some kitten eye infection home remedy solutions you can try as well.

To make a warm compress for your cat's eye, use a soft towel, wash cloth, gauze pad, or other cloth soaked in warm water. Gently press the warm, damp cloth onto your cat's eye and hold it there for up to five minutes. Remove the compress and discard the used cloth. Repeat the compress every hour until the infection clears. It may take two people to apply warm compresses to kitty — one to hold the cat, and the other to hold the compress over the cat's eye.

A wet cloth used to wipe away any discharge from the cat's eye is an effective means of keeping the infected eye clean. Use the same type of cloth you would use for the warm compress and wet it with warm water. Or, use a fragrance-free baby wipe made for sensitive skin. Wipe the eyes as often as necessary and discard the cloth after use. There are cat-specific wipes available at most pet retailers.

Administering certain herbal supplements fights infection and aids to relieve itching and redness in your cat's eyes. These supplements include aconite, sanicula, euphrasia, chamomile, calendula, and eyebright. Your veterinarian can recommend the appropriate dosage for your particular cat's needs.

An eye wash is effective for cats with infections caused by a foreign object stuck in the eye. Simply rinse your cat's eye with saline solution, which is available from a veterinarian, pet store, or online pet retailer. It is not recommended to use human-grade saline solution on cats. Flushing of the eye with feline-grade saline solution is often enough to remove the object and speed your cat's recovery.

Photography by Adri/iStock/GettyImages

Your veterinarian may also prescribe eye drops for cats. These can be applied in the same manner as the saline eye wash. Always be careful to avoid touching the tip of an eye solution applicator to the cat's eye. It may be advisable to have a helper hold the cat, or apply the solution. Alternatively, you can wrap the cat in a towel or blanket and hold her on your lap, where she'll be more comfortable.

Feeding your cat a well-balanced, high quality diet supports his immune system and helps fight off infections. Diets rich in vitamins A and C are excellent for both immune and eye health in cats. Providing vitamin A or C supplements (ask your vet for recommendations) or feeding a diet with plenty of vegetables such as spinach, kale and carrots guarantees your cat's daily recommended intake is met.

Natural medications without harsh chemical ingredients such as eye drops for cats are available in some pet stores or natural foods stores. These medications help your cat kick an eye infection. Check with your veterinarian for recommendations of natural medications and let your vet monitor your cat's progress when taking the medication.