My cat has severe tear stains, eyes nearly swollen shut, and lots of thick eye discharge
Expert Answer
From the photo, there is a large amount of eye discharge around the cat’s eyes. First consider bacterial or viral infection raising discharge and inflammation, and don’t rule out a congenital blocked tear duct causing more yellow tears. The exact cause needs viral screening and a professional eye exam at the clinic.
If you can’t get to a vet, at home flush the corners with saline, wipe the discharge with tissue, then apply neomycin sulfate eye drops to reduce inflammation. Clean the inflammatory discharge daily to ease discomfort, reduce bacteria, and speed recovery.
If the cat scratches its eyes from irritation, put on an e-collar. Apply drops 3–5 times daily, 2–3 drops each time; bacterial conjunctivitis usually improves within 5–7 days. Anti-inflammatory medication is typically once daily for 3–5 days—follow the product instructions.
Finally, if basic treatment keeps failing, suspect a viral respiratory disease such as feline herpesvirus or calicivirus; use antiviral drugs and interferon-like products and boost the cat’s immunity.