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Why is my feral kitten's eye squinting with discharge? Is it serious?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 7 months and 22 days old | 6 lbs

This is my neighbor’s outdoor feral kitten, Sprinkles. I TNR’d him a few weeks ago. My neighbor and I are concerned about his eye infection which she noticed last weekend. My neighbor purchased Terramycin to apply but, Sprinkles is not easy to pickup. She is willing to take him to a vet (she hasn’t yet as she helps with TNR transport after work and volunteers at the local food pantry). Any feedback regarding what is going on with his eye based on the photo would be appreciated. Thank you!!!

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Lauren Jones VMD

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on October 23rd, 2021

I agree that Sprinkles' right eye appears to have a good bit of discharge and squinting. While it's possible that this issue could be caused by an infection, I would expect both eyes to be affected. When only one eye squints, I worry more about corneal ulcers or abrasions. The only way to know for sure is to take Sprinkles to a vet for a physical exam, including eye evaluation. Since Sprinkles is feral, this process is likely to be more challenging, so you may want to ask your vet if they can prescribe a mild oral sedative like gabapentin to be given before the appointment. Depending on what is found, Sprinkles will likely need to receive eye medication at least twice per day, so he may need to be kept inside or in a safe, confined area until this issue has resolved. Eye issues can change and progress rapidly, so it's best to have him evaluated as soon as possible. Until then, keep him confined and try to put an e-collar (cone) on him if at all possible to prevent any rubbing or scratching of this eye. I hope that he's on the mend soon!
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on November 13th, 2020

    Poor Abby! I would recommend trying to keep the eye clear and open by using a warm clean washcloth to wipe away any debris that may be crusting the eye shut. Keeping an Elizabethan (cone) collar can also keep her from rubbing or pawing at the eye which may help reduce irritation until your vet can take a look.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on December 27th, 2017

    Sorry to hear the kittens aren't feeling well! It's possible an upper respiratory infection is causing the eye issues (you may also see coughing, sneezing, fever, changes in appetite, nasal discharge, etc) or there is something irritating the eye, or the eyes became injured from play, etc.

    If you've already got a vet appointment scheduled, you can use a warm washcloth to clear any debris from the eyes in the meantime to help keep them more comfortable and keep them open. If they are pawing at the area a lot, an Elizabethan (cone) collar is also a good idea to keep them from rubbing at it and worsening the irritation.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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