How to Give Your Cat Eye Drops: 11 Steps
Cat owners know that giving their feline friends medication can be a challenging task. Administering eye drops is no different; however, with the right techniques and some patience, you can make the process less stressful for both you and your cat. Here are 11 steps to help you give your cat eye drops with ease.
1. Gather supplies: Before getting started, ensure you have the eye drops, a clean towel or tissue, and a treat for rewarding your cat afterward.
2. Read the instructions: Carefully read the eye drop bottle’s label or consult your veterinarian for specific dosage and administration instructions.
3. Wash your hands: Prior to handling your cat or the eye drops, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly to prevent dirt or bacteria from entering your cat’s eyes.
4. Choose a quiet area: To minimize distractions and stress, pick a quiet and calm location in your home where you can comfortably administer the eye drops.
5. Position your cat: Gently place your cat on a stable surface like a table or countertop, with their back against your body so they feel safe and secure.
6. Securely hold your cat: Use one hand to hold onto the scruff of their neck gently but firmly, which will help keep them still during the process.
7. Open the eye drop bottle: Holding the bottle with your dominant hand, carefully remove the cap and avoid touching the dropper tip to prevent contamination.
8. Hold back their eyelids: Using the thumb and index finger of your non-dominant hand, gently pull back their upper and lower eyelids to expose the eye.
9. Administer the eye drops: Tilt the bottle slightly over the exposed (open) eye without touching it directly; squeeze gently until one drop falls into their eye – remember not to let the dropper touch their fur or skin.
10. Close their eye: Once the eye drops are in, gently release their eyelids and allow them to blink. This will help distribute the medication evenly across the eye’s surface.
11. Reward your cat: Praise your cat and offer a treat after finishing the process to create a positive association with the experience.
Remember, patience is key when learning how to give your cat eye drops. It may take a few tries before you both become comfortable with the process. If your cat continues to resist or if you notice any worsening symptoms, contact your veterinarian for further assistance.