Pour the water in two small bowls and place them close to you so you can access them easily.
Alternatively, you can ask a friend or partner to help you hold your cat still. Some pet owners find putting a towel over their cat’s head and then adjusting it so their eyes are exposed can help their cat stay still.
Once you have cleaned one eye, use a different cotton ball and dip it in the other bowl of water. Wipe your cat’s other eye with the fresh, wet cotton ball. Make sure you use a different cotton ball for each eye. Never use the same cotton ball twice, as this can spread bacteria and lead to an infection. You can also buy wipes from your local pet store that contain a safe cleaning solution so you don’t irritate your cat. [6] X Expert Source Daniel Lioy-Ryan, PhDAnimal Behaviorist Expert Interview. 17 August 2021.
Remove the tea bags and set them on a clean paper towel. This will allow them to cool.
You may also ask a friend or a partner to help you hold your cat still. Sometimes having an extra pair of hands to assist you can make keeping your cat still much easier.
Let the tea bags sit on your cat’s eyes for one to two minutes. If there is any crust around your cat’s eyes, the tea bags will help to loosen it and make it easier to wipe off.
If you notice your cat is constantly pawing her eye or scratching at it, you should bring her to the vet. She may also tear up a lot and her eyes may appear sensitive to light. These are all possible signs of a cornea or inner eye issue. Cat breeds that have short snouts, such as Persians, are more susceptible to eye drainage. [11] X Expert Source Daniel Lioy-Ryan, PhDAnimal Behaviorist Expert Interview. 17 August 2021.
If your cat has conjunctivitis or corneal disorders, your vet may recommend an antibiotic ointment. She may also suggest keeping your cat’s eyes clean on a regular basis. If your cat has a blocked tear duct, she may use plain water or a saline solution to flush out the duct.
