I'm in a bit of a panic here. My cat, Whiskers, has been having some trouble with his eyes lately—they seem really dry and he's been pawing at them a lot. I've heard mixed advice about using human products for pets, and since I have some lubricating eye drops (the kind used for dry eyes in humans) in my medicine cabinet, I'm wondering if they’d be safe to use on him to give him some relief. Has anyone else dealt with this before or talked to their vet about it? I’m really worried about making it worse by trying to help. I’m planning to call the vet, but I’d love any advice or experiences while I wait for their call back. Thanks!
Hello there! It's great that you're looking out for your cat's eye health. Generally, human lubricating eye drops or artificial tears can be used safely in cats for short-term management of dry eyes or minor irritations. However, it's important to ensure that they are basic, preservative-free drops containing only saline or purified water. Always avoid any products with added medications or chemicals meant for specific human eye conditions.
If your cat is experiencing runny or irritated eyes, you can start by gently cleaning any discharge with a soft, damp cloth. Be cautious and gentle to prevent any discomfort or further irritation.
Keep an eye on your cat for any signs that might indicate a more serious issue. Look out for persistent redness, swelling, excessive tearing, or any changes in your cat's behavior, such as frequent pawing at their eyes or squinting. These could be signs of an infection, an underlying health problem, or even an eye injury.
If the symptoms persist or worsen, it's wise to consult with a veterinarian to ensure your cat receives the appropriate care. Feel free to schedule a video consultation with one of our Dial A Vet professionals who can help assess your cat's situation more thoroughly and guide you on the best course of action.
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's
not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely.
For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our
content guidelines.