A Guide To Cleaning Your Cats Eyes

Cleaning your cats eyes is part of the grooming process. A healthy cat will have clear and bright eyes. Sometimes a crust is formed around the eyes. If this is allowed to remain, it could become infected.

To clean your cats eyes, you will need a soft washcloth, water, salt, cotton balls and a towel.

Every few days, you should wipe your cat's eyes gently with a washcloth dampened with water. The water should be at room temperature. Some breeds of cats, like Persians, get tear stains around the eye area. Wiping their eyes everyday will help reduce the problem.

If a thick crust is formed around the eyes, then you'll have to clean the area more thoroughly. Boil some water with a pinch of salt. The water should be boiled till the salt dissolves completely. Pour the water in two separate cups.

Wrap your cat in a towel. You should do this so the cat doesn't move around too much. In case your cat bites, wear a pair of gloves. While wrapping the cat in the towel, make sure that its legs are in a comfortable position.

Dip a cotton ball in the water and start to gently wipe the eye area. Do this till the crust is removed. Repeat the procedure with the other eye and use the water from the second cup. Use fresh cotton pads as and when required.

When your cat's eyes are clean, pet it and give it a few treats for being patient. Throw away all the used water and cotton balls and wash your hands properly. If you find your cat's eyes crusting up again, repeat the same cleaning process.

While cleaning your cats eyes, try and get another person to help you. Cats are unpredictable animals. Even the gentlest of them might get disturbed and try to bite you.

If your cat's eyes seem red and swollen or there is a greenish discharge from the eyes, take the cat to the vet immediately. Those could be symptoms of an eye infection. The constant appearance of the third eyelid or squinting might also represent a serious eye problem.

If you have a long haired cat, trim the hair surrounding its eyes. Foreign particles, including its own hair could injure a cat's cornea. There are many pet stores that sell eye cleansing solutions. You could try cleaning your cats eyes with them. Follow the instructions carefully. If you see that your cat is allergic to these solutions, stop using them. And last of all, in case you have any questions regarding cleaning your cats eyes, consult your vet.