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My 12-day-old kitten has a crusty eye and is sneezing. What can I do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 11 days old | 0.5 lbs

Out cat was recently pregnant and she became fond of us so we had brought her inside to have her babies. She gave birth on March 17th and the kittens have been growing and their eyes opened fully yesterday. Today I noticed the one had a shut eye again and it was very crusty. She doesn't meow as loud and sneezes quite a bit. I assume it is just a cold but considering she is only 12 days old, I'm worried it could cause problems for her and her brother. What should I do to help her?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Kevin Sanada, DVM

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 28th, 2018

This is a classic presentation of a cat with an upper respiratory disease. These are often due to a virus that is usually self-limiting (will go away on its own - much like a cold with people). These can become worse and complicated with bacterial infections, so if Clover is having issues with congestion and has bad nose or eye discharge, then it will be best to take her to a vet for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

You can help the congestion by giving her a steam bath. There is a link below that has good information about how to do this and other helpful tips for this condition.

http://www.wikihow.com/Help-Your-Cat-Breathe-Easier

I hope this helps and Clover feels better soon.

Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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