CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Fear Free,
Eye drops – how to administer them
Eye drops – how to administer them
Eye problems in cats are quite common. Tears quickly wash out any treatment put in the eye so eye drops need to be given several times a day. This means you will have to learn how to give the treatment at home.
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How often do I need to put drops in?
Some drops only need to be given once a day, others up to six times daily. Always follow the instructions given to you by your veterinarian very carefully. Never give more than the recommended dose and, if at all possible, try not to miss treatments.
How do I administer eye treatment to my cat?
With practice and patience, this medical treatment can become a bonding experience for you and your cat. You might find it easier to have your cat at a comfortable working height. Try placing or encouraging your cat onto a table or raised surface. If the surface is slippery, put a carpet tile or non-slip bathmat down so that your cat feels more secure.
Support your cat’s head and gently tilt the head upwards. With the thumb and finger of the holding hand the eyelids should be pulled gently apart and the medication given with the other hand. The tip of the tube should be held parallel with eye surface, not pointed directly at it. Position the dropper bottle a few centimeters above the eye and squeeze gently to release the right number of drops. Avoid touching the eye with the bottle spout. Incorporate special treats for your pet throughout the procedure to instill a pleasant association with care. If you are concerned about your cat’s reaction or your ability to administer eye medications, ask your veterinarian for assistance or referral to a positive reinforcement animal trainer with experience in cooperative care training. Successful management of pain associated with the eye condition is important to facilitate acceptance of eye care.
How do I apply ointments/creams?
Ointments and creams are slightly more difficult to apply because they are thick like toothpaste. Hold the cat and open its eye as above. Holding the tube of ointment above the eye, squeeze out some ointment and let it drop onto the eye to lie between the lids. Detach this ‘worm’ of ointment from the tube by pulling the ointment down against the lower lid. Always avoid touching the eye with the nozzle.
Does it matter where on the eye the drops/ointment falls?
As long as the treatment falls on the eye somewhere it does not matter where. When your cat blinks the drug will spread all over the surface of the eye.
Does the treatment hurt?
The eye is one of the most sensitive parts of the body and putting anything into an eye may cause discomfort. However, eye drops and ointments are designed for use in the eye and any discomfort will be slight. Your cat may blink a lot or have a ‘watery eye’ for a few moments after you have put the drops in. On rare occasions your cat may paw at the eye(s), rub its face along the floor or the white of the eye becomes red and sore. If so, stop the treatment immediately and contact your veterinarian.
How long do I have to continue the treatment?
Always continue the treatment for as long as your veterinarian recommends. Eye problems often appear to get better very quickly once treatment starts but if you stop treatment too soon the problem may come back.
What if I really can’t give the drops myself?
Most owners get quite good at giving eye drops with a bit of practice, but if you really can’t do it yourself tell your veterinarian. They may be able to prescribe a different drug which does not need to be given so often or which can be given by mouth instead. In some cases a nurse may be able to help you, or your cat could be taken into the hospital for a few days to be given treatment.
Further Reading
- This video produced by Fear Free® demonstrates emotionally protective treatment options to prevent damage to your relationship with your pet. Website: www.fearfreehappyhomes.com.