When you first encounter kittens, it’s natural to worry about their sensitive eyes. As a foster parent or someone caring for newborn kittens, it’s important to know-how to spot eye infections early. Eye infections in kittens are typically seen between 8 and 14 days old, shortly after their eyes begin to open. These infections can appear due to several reasons, including bacteria, viruses, or environmental irritants. From my experience caring for multiple litters, gentle handling and proper hygiene can make a big difference in preventing problems.
To support a kitten with eye infections, the first step is always to get a veterinarian involved. Veterinarians in places like Redmond often discuss eye infections in kittens, including the causes and how they can be treated. Using proper tools like clean cotton pads and prescribed ointments ensures the healing path is safe and effective. As a kitten parent, it’s rewarding to see their eyes brighten once they start responding to care. Staying vigilant and learning from veterinarians can make all the difference in keeping kittens healthy and comfortable.
Why Do Kittens Get Eye Infections?
Young kittens are very susceptible to eye infections for a number of reasons. In high-volume settings like animal shelters or community cat colonies, they are often exposed to contagious disease, which can be a big challenge for such vulnerable babies. Their undervaccinated and underdeveloped immune systems struggle to fight disease, making even simple problems look serious. I remember fostering a kitten whose eyes started to look concerning just days after arriving, and I learned how quickly things can change when proper care is delayed.
Sometimes a viral disease such as herpesvirus or calicivirus is to blame, often accompanied by upper respiratory symptoms. In other situations, a bacterial infection may appear as a secondary issue after a virus weakens the body. There are also primary problems like maternal transmission, poor environment conditions, or even causes like trauma or injury. Some congenital conditions such as eyelid agenesis can also lead to irritation, which then allows a secondary infection to form.
It is always important that a full examination by a veterinarian is done to determine the right treatment plan. Since every kitten condition can vary in severity depending on the cause, the level of need for medical care changes too. In my own experience, quick action often prevents long-term damage, and having a trusted vet’s guidance ensures the best chance for healing.
Eye Discharge in Cats
.A cat’s eyes should look clear and bright, but if you start looking closely and notice gooey buildup, constant pawing or rubbing the face against the sofa or rug, something may be wrong. Sometimes it’s just a simple cold, but in other cases a more serious illness could be causing eye discharge. From my own experience, the most common causes of eye discharge can range from mild irritation to infections, and while gentle cleaning at home can help, it’s always best to see a vet to keep your feline friend safe and comfortable.
Eye Discharge Causes
Many eye problems in a cat begin with small signs—like when it paws, squints, or blinks more than usual. I’ve seen how quickly a mild issue can turn into something with devastating consequences, sometimes even needing surgery or risking blindness if not addressed. That’s why I always talk to a vet whenever I notice irritated eyes or unusual changes in my kittens.
Some of the most common reasons for cat eye discharge are linked to feline upper respiratory infections, which are a very frequent cause of eye discharge in cats. These can be triggered by viruses such as feline calicivirus, pneumonitis, chlamydia, rhinotracheitis, and herpesvirus. Each is a contagious respiratory disease that spreads easily in young kittens. Along with viruses, bacteria and even protozoa like toxoplasmosis can lead to severe symptoms, ranging from mild to serious.
One telltale sign is sticky, pus-like eye discharge connected to conjunctivitis or pinkeye, which is an inflammation of the light pink lining of the cat eye. In these cases, the cat eyes may look red, swollen, or light-sensitive, producing anything from clear, teary liquid to thick, mucus eye discharge. I once cared for a kitten whose conjunctivitis was so severe that it also came with fever, diarrhea, and trouble breathing—and it turned out to be potentially fatal feline infectious peritonitis.
Not all causes are viral; corneal disorders can be just as painful. When the cat cornea, the dome-shaped surface at the front eye, becomes inflamed, injured, or ulcerated, it often shows cloudiness, constant blinking, squinting, and severe inflammation. These cases usually involve increased tear production, leading to watery tearing eyes, a condition called epiphora. Sometimes it’s due to blocked tear ducts, other times from overproduction tears or allergies.
Another hidden cause can be viral conjunctivitis or abnormal tearing related to uveitis, which is inflammation of the internal structures of the eye. This can follow trauma, cancer, or immune problems, and such infections are often serious and very painful. Uveitis is dangerous because it damages tissue from the inside, sometimes permanently.
Finally, a condition called dry eye or keratoconjunctivitis sicca results from a chronic lack of tear production. With dry eye, the inflamed cornea becomes irritated, the red eyes worsen, and if untreated, it can cause permanent blindness. Along with watery tears, you might also see missing tears, yellow gooey eye discharge, or even the third eyelid problems showing up. From my own foster care experience, spotting these early signs and getting a vet’s opinion made the difference between a kitten losing its sight and one keeping its vision.
What Are Eye Infections in Newborn Kittens?
A kitten can develop an eye infection very early in life, and a veterinarian is often needed to diagnose what’s going on. The medical name ophthalmia neonatorum is a general term for inflammation of the eye in a newborn. Because their eyelids stay closed 10–14 days, kittens are more susceptible to infection caused by bacteria or viruses, and these can quickly turn into serious infections. I’ve seen tiny kittens with swollen lids where infection built up unseen, making early checks so important.
The areas most at risk are the cornea and the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is the moist, slippery lining that covers the eyeball, the upper and lower eyelids, and even the third eyelid at the inner corner eye. This space, lined conjunctiva, helps keep the eyeball conjunctiva clear, but in newborns, once germs get trapped under the lids, the infection can spread quickly.
The cornea, often called the window of the eye, is the clear outermost surface with a curved shape that bends light as it enters the eye. It has three clear specialized layers cells, and when an infection occurs in newborn kittens with their eyelids closed, thick pus can collect underneath eyelids. This can lead to serious permanent damage, leaving the surface cornea with scarring that blocks vision and makes it impermeable light.
Sometimes the infection conjunctiva can stick cornea, which is why conjunctivitis—when the conjunctiva inflamed—is common in these cases. Affected kittens may struggle once their eyelids open, showing discharge and discomfort that signals deeper issues. When I fostered a litter, one baby had pus-filled eyes that stuck shut, and gentle care plus quick vet treatment saved its sight.
Because the conjunctiva and cornea are so delicate, untreated problems can progress rapidly. That is why having a veterinarian diagnose the kitten condition early ensures proper treatment, whether it’s cleaning, antibiotics, or other care to protect their vision.
Signs of Eye Infections in Newborn Kittens
Newborn kittens often keep their eyes closed less 14 days, and this is the time when eye infections can first be noticed. A kitten between 7–14 days may show signs eye infections such as sneezing, nasal discharge, or a swollen eyelid. Sometimes clear or thick pus discharge begins seeping eyelid, leaving a sticky crust or even painful eyelid sores. In severe cases, the eyelid collapsed or the deflated eye appearance may warn of deeper problems that need care right away.
When kittens eyes open 15 days older, you may still see eyelid remaining closed 14 days or stuck together with crust, another warning sign. I once cared for a tiny foster with swelling, redness, and thick pus discharge that made its eyelid stuck tight. Watching for sneezing, nasal discharge, and changes in how the eyes look is important, since untreated infections can worsen quickly. Spotting these early signs kittens face gives them the best chance for healing.
Causes of Eye Infections in Newborn Kittens
From my own experience fostering newborn kittens, I’ve seen how easily their delicate eyes can become infected. Their conjunctiva and cornea are still developing, making them more susceptible to infections. Many times, these problems commonly begin when germs pass from the mother during birth through the canal or through contact with fluid that carries infected bacteria. A feline herpesvirus (FHV) is another frequent cause, and this contagious virus can be transmitted through direct contact, infected fluids, or tiny droplets. I’ve cared for litters where illness quickly passed from one newborn kitten to another, showing just how risky it is when an infected cat remains close to fragile babies. That’s why it’s so important to keep sick cats and newborn kittens away from one another.
Since newborn kittens have an immature immune system, they are extremely fragile, which increases the likelihood of infection. I’ve noticed that crowded, unclean, and stressful living conditions strongly contribute to eye infection. Early signs often include ocular discharge, swelling, and redness, sometimes linked to a congenital abnormality that worsens the situation. These issues not only cause visible irritation but also severe pain and even lasting damage to the cornea if not treated quickly.
Types of Eye Infections in Newborn Kittens
When I first started fostering both puppies and kittens, I quickly learned that newborn kittens are especially at risk of a condition called ophthalmia neonatorum. This happens when their eyes are exposed to bacteria during delivery through the mother’s birth canal. Staphylococcus and Streptococcus are common culprits, but Chlamydia and Mycoplasma can also be an underlying cause of serious infections. In some cases, feline herpesvirus (FHV) is involved, making it more difficult to manage. I’ve noticed that even though the clinical signs may look similar, each infection has its own challenges, which is why only trained veterinarians can truly diagnose the exact problem.
During a diagnosis, a vet usually begins with a physical exam of the kitten and may also evaluate the mother’s health. In my own experience, I’ve had to use warm water to gently open a kitten’s eyes when they were stuck shut with discharge. Once the kitten’s eyes are opened, a proper ophthalmic eye exam can be performed. Sometimes the eyes are carefully flushed, and a fluorescein dye is applied. This diagnostic contrast agent creates a yellowish-green fluorescent stain that is absorbed by damaged areas, helping the vet see if the cornea has injuries or ulcers. With the right light, the layers of the cornea are clearly illuminated, making the problem visible.
I’ve also seen how dangerous it can be if someone tries to open a kitten’s eyes prematurely. Doing so can hurt them and even cause long-term damage. Instead, the safest way is to let a veterinarian handle it with proper care. Along with the exam, samples of eye discharge are sometimes taken and sent to a lab. Through bacterial culture and susceptibility testing, the specific bacteria can be identified. This step is very important because it helps the vet guide treatment options that are most effective for that infection.
Because every infection in newborn kittens can vary, proper diagnosis is essential. Without the right steps, a small issue may spread quickly, especially in fragile babies. Having fostered several litters, I’ve seen firsthand how important early testing and tailored care are. That’s why I always recommend working closely with a vet when facing any eye problems in kittens—it makes all the difference in protecting their vision and overall health.
Cat Weepy Eye Home Remedies
When I cared for a rescue cat with watery eyes caused by herpes viruses, I learned that lysine, an essential amino acid and organic compound that helps form proteins, is sometimes used to support cats with eye problems. Some believe it can avoid outbreaks, make them heal faster, and even play a role in outbreak prevention and outbreak management, though there is still debate about how helpful and safe lysine really is for cats. My vet suggested discussing lysine supplements before trying them, since proper treatment depends on the cause of the issue. I’ve seen lysine available in many forms for cats, like oral gel, cat treats, powder, liquid, or even tincture, but I always talk to a vet first to make sure it’s the right option during a herpes outbreak.
At-Home Eye Exams to Identify Problems
When I check my cat’s eyes regularly, it can help identify problems before they turn serious. A simple cat exam at home starts by placing the cat in front of my face in a brightly lit room, then using my fingers to gently roll the cat’s eyelid and look at the lining, which should be pink and healthy-looking. If it looks swollen, red, or too white in color, that’s often a sign of a problem. I also look closely at the eyeballs—they should be clear and healthy, without murkiness or cloudiness on the eyeball, since either could be a sign of infection. Finally, I check the cat’s pupils to be sure they are the same sizes and that the area around the eyeball white looks normal.
Home Care: Tips for Keeping Your Cat’s Eyes Healthy
From what I’ve seen while caring for tiny kittens, simple steps at home can prevent many eye problems and protect your cat’s eyes. Regular yearly vaccinations for your kitty are important, especially if there is overcrowding, since infections spread faster in such spaces. Always watch for redness, cloudiness, or any change in the color or shape of the eyes, as well as discharge or sensitivity to light. If you notice unusual cat’s eye discharge, gently remove it so your pet stays comfortable, but don’t delay making a vet appointment if the signs continue.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals also recommends gentle cleaning as part of daily care. I often dip soft cotton balls in plain water and wipe the eye discharge from the corner of the eye outward, always using a fresh cotton ball for each eye. While some owners try over-the-counter drops or washes, I’ve learned that only a vet prescribed plan gives the correct treatment. It’s critical for the health and well-being of your cat to talk to a veterinarian when extra care is needed, since guessing on your own can delay recovery.
Treatment of Eye Infections in Newborn Kittens
From my experience helping fragile kittens, I’ve learned that conditions like sticky eye discharge in young cats should never be ignored. When you notice a cat’s eye discharge, it’s best to talk to a veterinarian early because the cause could be linked to feline upper respiratory infection, allergies from pollen, dust, weeds, irritants, or even more serious eye problems. A vet can explain proper treatments and guide the right treatment plan depending on whether the infection is mild or severe.
Many kittens I’ve cared for needed antibiotics, decongestants, or extra fluids when battling conjunctivitis caused by a bacterial infection. Sometimes, the vet prescribed steroid ointment or antibiotic ointments when the corneal disorders affected the cat’s cornea, and keeping the eyes clean was always part of the daily routine. Using antibiotic eye ointment or drops helped promote healing, while in some rare cases, vets had to remove damaged corneal tissue through cauterization surgery to protect the kitten’s vision.
Other kittens showed watery tearing eyes due to a cat’s blocked tear duct, and here a plain water saline flush by the vet helped relieve pressure. With uveitis treatment, especially when causing cat’s uveitis, vets worked to diagnose the problem and prescribed eye ointment or drops to control inflammation and pain. For kittens showing signs of dry eye diseases, boosting the immune system was key, as some cases were linked to the herpes virus, needing treatment with eyedrops, ointments, or immune-suppressing drugs, along with artificial tears to ease discomfort.
I’ve also seen feline calicivirus infections where a vet may suspect the cat disease after noticing eye symptom flare-ups along with breathing issues. Here, treatment often focuses on symptom control with antibiotics, especially for secondary bacterial infections, and sometimes to prevent pneumonia or other serious issues. In such cases, a mix of supportive care and consistent monitoring made a huge difference in recovery, reminding me that early and guided attention is the best way to protect these tiny lives.
Common Kitten Eye Infection Symptoms
When a kitten experiences an eye infection, the symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause, but I’ve commonly seen symptoms like red, inflamed eyes, swollen eyelids, and sticky discharge that may look clear or pus-like, often leaving the eyelids sticking together at the front of the eyes. In more severe cases, the eyelids bulge outward, painful sores appear on the surface of the eye, or in rare cases, a collapsed eyeball develops, which shows how urgent proper care is for fragile kittens.
Diagnosing Kitten Eye Infections
When I’ve taken a kitten with an eye problem to the clinic, the veterinary examination always starts with a vet doing a thorough assessment of the kitten’s overall health and looking for signs of viral or bacterial infection. Sometimes the cause of the kitten’s eye infection can be linked to the mother’s health, the kitten’s living conditions, or even if the infection was contracted at birth. To be sure, the vet may take a culture of the eye discharge or even the mother’s vaginal discharge to identify the type of infection.
In other cases, I’ve seen the vet examine the kitten’s eye for signs of trauma, scratches, or foreign objects. They might use special eye drops with a yellow dye, which makes hidden injuries more apparent under light. If the vet suspects the kitten has a systemic disease, then blood tests or urinalysis are carried out to identify underlying health conditions that may be present. These diagnostic tests help create the right plan for healing and protecting the kitten’s vision.
How do you treat a cat’s eye infection?
When dealing with a cat eye infection, the right treatments depend on the cause, which is why a veterinarian always assesses the cat’s overall health and carefully examines the eye to find the underlying cause. In my experience, the most commonly used options include topical antibiotics, antiviral eye drops, or ointments, while more serious cases may need oral antibiotics or even anti-inflammatory drugs. If the problem is linked to an allergy, proper management is part of the treatment plan, and in situations involving a foreign body, careful removal is necessary.
I’ve also found that simple supportive care can make a big difference—warm compresses and gentle eye washes are often recommended to ease discomfort while the main medicine works. Every treatment should follow a plan set by a veterinarian, since no two infections are the same, and proper guidance helps kittens recover safely.
How long can a kitten go with an eye infection?
From what I’ve seen, some bacterial or viral infections in kittens may resolve within 5 to 14 days, but if the cases are not improving, the pets are at greater risk of lasting damage. In such situations, proper infection testing should be performed by a vet so a definitive diagnosis can be made and the right treatment started quickly.
Can a kitten eye infection spread to humans?
One common cause of eye problems in kittens is feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), which often leads to conjunctivitis and sometimes chronic or recurrent cases. This virus can lie hidden in the nervous system and later activates during stress or illness, but even though it belongs to the human herpesvirus-1 family of viruses, it is strictly species-specific. That means FHV-1 cannot infect humans, and people caring for sick kittens don’t need to fear catching it themselves.
When to worry about kitten eye discharge?
I usually worry when a cat starts squinting, blinking excessively, or even pawing and rubbing its eyes, because these can be early signs of trouble. If the eyes look swollen, cloudy, or are unable to be opened, and there is eye discharge along with other signs of illness like sneezing, nasal discharge, decreased appetite, or lethargy, then it’s time to take the kitten to the vet quickly.
Can a cat eye infection clear up on its own?
.Sometimes a mild cat eye infection may resolve on its own, especially if it is caused by environmental irritants or allergens, but it’s essential to monitor the condition closely. From my own experience, I’ve seen cases improve naturally, yet if the symptoms persist or even worsen, seeking veterinary care is the safest step to protect the kitten’s health.