Cats can accumulate dirt, or secretions, around their eyes due to allergies or seasonal changes. If you notice residue in the corners of your cat's eyes in the morning, you may be wondering how to remove it safely. It is important to remove the dirt to prevent the cat from developing infections or other eye diseases. You can use a cotton ball and hot water or tea bags for this. If you are concerned that your feline friend has contracted an infection or some other more serious ailment, take him to the vet for a checkup.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: with hot water and cotton balls
Step 1. Boil some water
For this method it is important to have sterilized water to make sure you clean your eyes with the most hygienic material possible; boil it in a saucepan or kettle, then wait for it to come back to room temperature.
Pour it into two small bowls and place them close together for easy access to both
Step 2. Get the cotton balls
Make sure they are clean to apply them on the cat's eyes after soaking them in hot water; alternatively, you can use a soft, clean cloth or towel. Whichever product you choose, make sure it is soft to the touch so as not to scratch or further irritate your eyes.
Step 3. Sit down and hold the cat on your lap
You need to make sure it stays still in order to cleanse the secretions from your eyes. Try sitting with the cat on your legs and muzzle facing you, grab it under the chin to keep its head still; you will have to proceed quickly to prevent it from moving too much.
- Alternatively, you can ask a friend or partner to help you keep it blocked.
- Some pet owners find it convenient to place a towel over the cat's head and position it in a way that expose the eyes; in this way the animal also remains stationary.
Step 4. Remove the dirt from his eyes
Once the cat is in the correct position, dip the cotton wool in the water; then use your dominant hand to carefully rub one eye and rid it of secretions. Be careful not to introduce any other dirt during the procedure.
- Once you have cleaned one eye, take a new cotton ball and wet it with the water from the other bowl; then rub the second eye with this new cotton wool.
- Make sure you use two different pieces of cotton for the two eyes; never use the same swab for both, otherwise you could spread bacteria and cause an infection.
Method 2 of 3: with tea bags
Step 1. Infuse two bags of green or black tea
These types of teas have antibacterial properties that can relieve eye irritation or itching. Make sure it's organic tea so you don't expose your cat to chemicals or additives. put the tea bags in boiling water for three or four minutes.
After this time, remove them from the water, place them on clean kitchen paper and wait for them to cool
Step 2. Hold the cat still
You need to make sure it is perfectly still as you go, as the tea bags need to rest on your eyes for a few minutes. You can hold him on your lap and place a towel over his head, arranging it to expose his eyes.
You can optionally ask a friend or partner to help you keep him still; sometimes another pair of hands proves very valuable while you hold the cat motionless
Step 3. Apply the tea bags over the creature's eyes
Once the cat has stabilized with its eyes well exposed, you can proceed and place the bags; before they come into contact with your eyes you must check that they are not too hot so as not to cause burns or irritation.
- Leave them over your eyes for a minute or two.
- If there is any secretion, the sachets should dissolve them and make the removal process easier.
Step 4. Scrub away any remaining grime
Remove the sachets and, with a soft, clean and wet cloth with hot water, gently rub the area to eliminate any trace of secretions; at this point they should come off easily thanks to the heat of the sachets.
Method 3 of 3: Take the cat to the vet
Step 1. Check for any signs of infection
If you see that the secretions do not go away and the cat's eyes are very red, you must take him to the vet, as it could be a symptom of conjunctivitis. You also need to get your cat checked out when the dirt around your eyes is greenish or yellowish and sticky or smelly, as these are all signs of a possible bacterial infection.
If you notice that the cat continues to rub or scratch its eyes with its paws, you must have it examined by the vet. The animal could also show abundant tearing and sensitivity to light; these are all indications of some disturbance in the cornea or inside the eye
Step 2. Get a diagnosis from the vet
Let me examine the little feline's eyes; he might also take a sample of the secretion for bacterial culture to see if his eyes are very red, inflamed, irritated, or sensitive to light.
Step 3. Evaluate the different treatment options
Your doctor may recommend specific treatments based on the type of infection or disease that has affected your cat. Many eye ailments can be managed with antibiotic ointments or drops that you can give your cat for a set period; with the right treatment, these issues are often resolved without consequences.
- If the cat suffers from conjunctivitis or some corneal disorder, the vet recommends an antibiotic ointment; he may also recommend that you clean your eyes regularly.
- If your cat has an obstructed tear ducts, you can use pure water or a saline solution to free them.
