Applying eye drops or ointment to your cat may seem like a daunting task, but with a little patience and practice, you can easily administer the medication to your feline friend. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply eye drops or ointment to your cat:
1. Gather your supplies: Before you begin, make sure you have the eye drops or ointment prescribed by your veterinarian, a clean cloth or tissue to wipe away any excess medication, and treats to reward your cat afterwards.
2. Prepare your cat: Approach your cat calmly and gently, making sure they are in a comfortable and relaxed position. It may be helpful to have another person hold your cat steady or wrap them in a towel to prevent them from moving too much.
3. Administer the medication: If you are using eye drops, gently hold your cat’s head with one hand and use your other hand to carefully pull down the lower eyelid to create a small pocket for the drops. Hold the dropper close to your cat’s eye and squeeze in the recommended amount of drops. Be careful not to touch the dropper to your cat’s eye to prevent contamination.
If you are using ointment, gently pull down the lower eyelid as before and carefully apply a small amount of ointment along the inner surface of the lower eyelid. Your cat may blink or squint after the application, which is normal.
4. Wipe away excess medication: Use a clean cloth or tissue to gently wipe away any excess medication that may have leaked out of your cat’s eye. Be sure to dispose of the cloth or tissue properly to prevent contamination.
5. Reward your cat: After administering the eye drops or ointment, reward your cat with a treat or extra affection to make the experience more positive for them. This will help them associate the medication with something pleasant.
6. Repeat as necessary: Depending on your veterinarian’s instructions, you may need to administer the eye drops or ointment multiple times a day. Be sure to follow their guidelines closely to ensure the medication is effective.
By following these steps and practicing patience, you can successfully apply eye drops or ointment to your cat and help them on the road to recovery. If you are having difficulty or your cat is showing signs of distress, consult your veterinarian for further advice and assistance.
