How to Put Ointment in Feline Eyes

Cats, like humans, are subject to periodic eye disorders, such as conjunctivitis, pink eye and glaucoma. If this happens, your veterinarian is likely to prescribe eye ointments that will need to be applied on a regular schedule. Even the most docile cat is not likely to allow this process. Luckily, a few tested methods have proven effective in applying ointment to your cat's eyes.

Instructions

1

Hold your cat still. Of course this may be easier said than done, especially if your cat is apprehensive. It is important for her to be as still as possible to prevent injury to the eye. Reserve your dominant hand to hold the medication. If your cat has a calm demeanor you may be able simply to hold your other arm across her body. For less docile cats, try wrapping them up in a soft towel or blanket. Swaddle them in such a way that only their face is showing. This can help prevent excess movement and scratching. You also can enlist the help of another person to hold her while you apply the ointment.

2

Use your non-dominant hand to hold the cat's head steady. To accomplish this, hold your cat's head from the top. Use her cheek bones as a makeshift handle to hold her head firmly without causing the cat any discomfort.

3

Pull the bottom eyelid downward until a pouch shape is created, using the thumb of your non-dominant hand.

4

Clasp the medication in your dominant hand a few millimeters from the cat's eyeball. Do not allow the medication container to touch the eyelid or eye.

5

Administer a thin line of ointment into the pouch of the cat's eye.

6

Close the cat's eye and gently rub the ointment into the eye, causing it to distribute evenly throughout.

7

Repeat this process with the other eye if necessary.