I accidentally used human allergy eye drops for my cat. Should I be worried and what should I do next?

This morning, I accidentally put human allergy eye drops in my cat's eyes. I was in a hurry and didn't realize until checking the label afterward. I'm really concerned about any potential side effects this might have on him. Is there anything I should be on the lookout for, and what should I do next to ensure he's okay?

Answer

Your cat mistakenly received human allergy eye drops, which may have components not suited for feline eyes, and you're rightly worried about any side effects.

  • Monitor your cat for unusual eye symptoms.
  • Contact your veterinarian for guidance.
  • Prevent the recurrence by storing medications separately.

It's understandable to be concerned. Human eye drops may have ingredients that can irritate a cat’s eyes, potentially causing redness, watering, squinting, or discomfort. It's best to rinse the affected eye gently with sterile saline solution if possible, and closely observe for any adverse reactions. If such symptoms appear, promptly contact your local vet for further assistance.

If this is an emergency, please seek immediate veterinary care.

Book a consultation with a licensed vet at Dial A Vet for just $49 AUD if you're unsure or symptoms are getting worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What symptoms should I watch for after putting human eye drops in my cat's eyes?

    Look for signs of irritation such as redness, watering, blinking, or your cat pawing at their eyes. If any of these occur, contact your vet immediately.

  • Can I use human medications on my pet in the future?

    It is generally not advisable to use human medications on pets unless specifically directed by a veterinarian, as they may contain ingredients harmful to animals.

  • What immediate steps should I take now?

    If you have not done so already, rinse your cat's eyes with a sterile saline solution to remove any remaining drops and observe for any unusual behavior or symptoms.

Next available appointment

Loading…