Kitten's Eye Is Crusted Shut​: What Should I Do

Seeing your kitten’s eye crusted shut can be alarming, but it's a common issue that many kittens experience. It can be caused by infections, allergies, or underlying health conditions. Understanding why this happens and how to clean your kitten’s eyes properly is essential for their overall health.

In this guide, we’ll discuss:
√ Why your kitten’s eye keeps crusting shut
√ How to clean a kitten’s matted eyes safely
√ When to see a vet
√ Prevention tips to keep your kitten’s eyes healthy

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this issue and how to help your kitten recover quickly!

Why Does My Kitten's Eye Keep Crusting Shut?

A kitten’s eye may become crusted shut due to several possible causes. Identifying the root of the problem is the first step toward effective treatment.

1. Upper Respiratory Infections (URI)

Kittens, especially those from shelters or stray backgrounds, are prone to upper respiratory infections (URIs). These infections, often caused by feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) or calicivirus, can lead to eye discharge, sneezing, nasal congestion, and fever.

♦ Symptoms of URI in Kittens:

• Watery or pus-like eye discharge
• Sneezing and runny nose
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy

♦ How It Leads to Crusted Eyes:
When the discharge from the infection dries around the eye, it can cause crusting, making it difficult for your kitten to open its eye.

2. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) in Kittens

Conjunctivitis is another common reason for a kitten’s eye getting crusted shut. This condition involves inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin tissue lining the inside of the eyelids.

♦ Symptoms of Conjunctivitis:

• Red, swollen eyes
• Thick, yellow or green discharge
• Frequent blinking or squinting
• Sensitivity to light

♦ Causes of Conjunctivitis in Kittens:

• Viral or bacterial infections
• Allergies (dust, pollen, smoke)
• Eye injuries
  
  

3. Eye Infections in Kittens

A bacterial or viral eye infection can lead to crusty eyes and severe discomfort. These infections may result from untreated respiratory infections, dirty environments, or foreign objects in the eye.

♦ Signs of an Eye Infection:

• Persistent eye discharge
• Swelling around the eye
• Redness and irritation
• Excessive rubbing or pawing at the eye

4. Blocked Tear Ducts

Sometimes, a kitten’s tear ducts become clogged, causing excess tear production. These tears can dry and form crusts around the eye. While not always a serious issue, persistent blockages may require veterinary attention.

5. Allergies and Environmental Irritants

Just like humans, kittens can have allergic reactions to things like:

• Dust and pollen
• Smoke or strong scents
• Certain cleaning products

♦ How Allergies Affect Kitten’s Eyes:

• Increased tear production
• Mild swelling
• Clear, watery discharge that crusts over time
  
  

How to Clean a Kitten’s Eyes That Are Matted Shut

If your kitten’s eye is crusted shut, proper cleaning is crucial to prevent further irritation or infection. Follow these safe and effective steps to clean your kitten’s matted eyes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning a Kitten’s Eyes:

♦ Step 1: Prepare Your Supplies

• Soft cotton pads or gauze
• Warm water or a vet-approved saline solution
• A clean towel

♦ Step 2: Gently Hold Your Kitten

• Wrap your kitten in a soft towel to keep them calm and still.
• Speak softly and offer reassurance to reduce stress.

♦ Step 3: Soften the Crust

• Soak a cotton pad in warm water and gently press it against the eye for 30 seconds to soften the crust.
• Avoid rubbing, as this can irritate the eye further.

♦ Step 4: Wipe Away the Discharge

• Gently wipe from the inner corner of the eye outward.
• Use a new cotton pad for each wipe to prevent contamination.

♦ Step 5: Apply a Vet-Recommended Eye Solution (if prescribed)

• If your kitten has an eye infection, your vet may provide antibiotic eye drops or ointment.

♦ Step 6: Monitor and Repeat If Necessary

• Clean your kitten’s eyes twice a day or as needed.
• If symptoms worsen, seek veterinary advice.

⊗ Avoid using human eye drops, soap, or harsh chemicals, as they can cause serious damage to your kitten’s eyes.

When to See a Vet

While mild eye crusting can often be managed at home, some cases require veterinary attention. Seek a vet if you notice:

♦Persistent or worsening eye discharge
♦Severe swelling, redness, or cloudiness in the eye
♦Your kitten is pawing at their eye excessively
♦Signs of pain, lethargy, or loss of appetite

A vet can diagnose underlying conditions such as severe infections, ulcers, or chronic respiratory illnesses and provide the right treatment.

Kitten Eye Health & Prevention Tips

To keep your kitten’s eyes clean and healthy, follow these simple preventive measures:

1. Maintain a Clean Environment

• Regularly clean bedding, litter boxes, and food bowls.
• Reduce dust and avoid strong-smelling cleaning products.

2. Boost Your Kitten’s Immune System

• Feed high-quality kitten food rich in essential nutrients.
• Provide fresh water daily.

3. Keep Up with Vaccinations

• Vaccinating your kitten against feline herpesvirus and calicivirus can prevent many infections that cause eye problems.

4. Monitor for Early Signs of Illness

• Check your kitten’s eyes daily for discharge, redness, or swelling.
• If any issues arise, address them early before they worsen.
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I Use Human Eye Drops on My Kitten?

No, human eye drops can be harmful. Always use vet-approved eye treatments.

2. How Often Should I Clean My Kitten’s Eyes?

If they are crusted shut, clean them twice daily until the issue resolves. For general hygiene, check their eyes weekly.

3. Will My Kitten’s Eye Infection Go Away on Its Own?

Mild cases may improve, but persistent infections require veterinary care to prevent complications.

Final Thoughts

A kitten’s eye crusting shut is often caused by infections, allergies, or blocked tear ducts. While gentle cleaning can help, persistent symptoms require veterinary attention.

♦ Keep your kitten’s environment clean
♦ Maintain proper hygiene and eye care
♦ Monitor for signs of serious infections
♦ Seek veterinary help when necessary

By following these steps, you can protect your kitten’s eye health and ensure they grow up happy and healthy!

Would you like more kitten health guides? Let me know in the comments!