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Red eye and Squinting / tearing, won't open the eye in cats: what to do

When these two symptoms appear together, the likely problem space narrows sharply β€” 2 common conditions are strongly linked. Ranked by match, with urgency and home care.

Possible common causes

Corneal ulcerSee a vet within 24 hoursConjunctivitis (herpes-related)Monitor for 48 hours

βœ… Home-care checklist

  • βœ“Use an e-collar
  • βœ“Fluorescein staining within 24 hours
  • βœ“Recheck on schedule until healed
  • βœ“Clean around the eyes with a warm damp pad
  • βœ“Reduce stress (stress triggers flares)
  • βœ“Use vet-prescribed antiviral/antibiotic drops

πŸ₯ When to see a vet

  • ⚠Purulent discharge + cloudiness
  • ⚠The eye cannot open at all
  • ⚠A white cornea or an eye held shut
  • ⚠Repeated flares getting worse

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