My cat has a bacterial eye infection. Can I use Eyegene eyedrops?

Unless the eye infection is caused by something else in the body, systemic antibiotics are rarely used or indicated. Ophthalmic antibiotics are much more likely to cure an infection of the eye in a timely manner. Sometimes what looks like an infection isn't actually caused by bacteria. It could also be caused by corneal abrasion or ulceration, allergies, foreign body, autoimmune disorder, etc. I also prefer other types of injectable antibiotics over gentamicin. It is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that can be kidney toxic and has a pretty long list of adverse effects. I only use it in cases that do not respond to safer antibiotics.

I am so sorry to hear that Snow is experiencing these problems with her eye. Start by placing an e-collar or cone on Snow to prevent scratching or rubbing. If the eye is infected it is likely painful, this will prompt Snow to scratch or rub her eye. However, this could inflict further damage, infection or even an ulceration. Because eye concerns with cats, such as infections, corneal ulcerations, cataracts and glaucoma, can progress rapidly in I would have her examined by your veterinarian to diagnose the issue. The precise medication can then be dispensed by your veterinarian. Please do not attempt to treat an eye infection at home with any over the counter medications, drops or ointments. This can lead to permanent damage and unnecessary pain or discomfort. I hope this answer was helpful and that Snow feels better soon. Warmest regards to you both!

You will have to use your best judgement on if Binx needs to see the vet tonight or if it can wait, since I am not able to evaluate the eye. If he has chronic eye infections, they may be viral, and the antibiotics may or may not be needed. Helping him keep it clean by using a warm wet washcloth until he sees the vet.

It is never recommended to medicate a pet without the advice of your veterinarian. A physical exam is strongly recommended to confirm infection so the appropriate antibiotic can be used. Inappropriate antibiotic use can lead to resistant bacteria and may complicate any underlying conditions. If you choose to use this medication, chloramphenicol can cause serious blood abnormalities, thus should be handled with caution.

If the eye discharge is clear then an infection is not present, so you don't have to use the eye gel (erythromycin). Instead you should use an anti-viral supplement such as Lysine gel/powder from your local pet store or vet clinic. Cats are prone to viral infections which can cause watery eye discharge and reddish discharge. The use of antibiotics is only needed when a secondary infection is also present. Lysine powder/gel can be given throughout Richard's lifespan to help boost her immune system and help ward off future viral infections (i.e. herpesvirus).

Unfortunately, a tea bag will not cure Uno's eye infection, and I would not recommend using human eye drops on it. That's because a cat's eye reacts differently to human eye medications than a human's eye, and you can accidentally do harm to his eye with this. The eye is such an important and delicate structure that any problem with it is considered an emergency. That's because leaving it untreated can lead to vision loss. I would take Uno into a vet immediately to have his eye examined and treated.

Poor Snowball! Since she is still squinting with watery eye discharge after 6 days on Terramycin, you should take her to the vet now. The most common cause of recurrent eye issues and sneezing is due to viral infections (herpesvirus and calicivirus) that can cause both eye and upper respiratory signs when they shed intermittently. Signs typically resolve once the virus is done shedding, but many cats can also develop secondary bacterial infections which require antibiotics for treatment. In the long term, discuss using a Lysine supplement (Viralys is one example) for Snowball with her vet. I hope that all goes well for Snowball!