Why and how often
A healthy cat's eyes are clear and bright, both pupils are the same size, and the third eyelid in the inner corner is barely visible. A little dry discharge in the corners after sleep is normal: gently wiping it away is enough.
In flat-faced cats, such as Persians and Exotics, tears do not always drain where they should, so their eye corners need wiping every day. Put nothing into the eyes and do not use anything made for people without your vet's instructions.
What you need
- Cotton pads, a separate one for each eye
- Clean, lukewarm boiled water
- A fine comb for the hair around the eyes Grooming
- Treats as a reward Treats
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Step by step
- Look at the eyes In good light, look at both eyes and compare them: are both open the same, clear, and are the pupils the same size?
- Moisten a cotton pad Moisten a pad with lukewarm boiled water and squeeze it so it does not drip.
- Wipe from the inner corner outwards Gently wipe away discharge from the inner corner of the eye towards the outer one, without touching the eyeball. Use a fresh pad for each eye.
- Dry the hair below the eyes If your cat's eyes water, dry the hair below them so the skin does not stay damp.
- Praise your cat Give a treat afterwards. If your cat gets anxious, wipe one eye now and the other later.
When to stop and see a vet
See a vet the same day if your cat squints or keeps an eye shut, the eye is red, swollen or cloudy, there is yellow or green discharge, the third eyelid is showing, the pupils differ in size or your cat suddenly starts bumping into things. Eye problems get worse quickly, so do not wait.