Have you noticed yellow or green discharge in your cat's eye, or your dog closing its eye and rubbing it constantly? These are among the most common signs of eye inflammation in cats and dogs, and often the most suitable treatment is an antibiotic eye ointment after a proper diagnosis. In this guide, we explain as a veterinarian when you need this type of medicine, how it works, and how to use it safely.
What is antibiotic eye ointment for cats and dogs?
It is a topical medication applied directly inside the eye, containing one or more substances that kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria causing the infection. Some of the most common active ingredients in these ointments are:
- Chloramphenicol: A broad-spectrum antibiotic that penetrates eye tissues well.
- Polymyxin B: Effective against certain gram-negative bacteria.
Veterinarians often prefer ointment over drops in many cases because it stays in the eye longer, requiring fewer applications.
Tags indicating your animal needs eye treatment
- Yellow or green purulent discharge, or crusts on the eyelids in the morning.
- Redness in the white of the eye or in the inner eyelid membrane (conjunctiva).
- Swollen eyelids or partially closed eye.
- Excessive tearing and rubbing the eye with the foot or on the ground.
- Eye inflammation in kittens after a cold.
Important warning: If you notice opacity or a white spot on the eye surface, severe pain, or a change in eye color or size, do not rely on home treatment and consult a veterinarian immediately, as it may be a corneal ulcer or a deeper issue.
How does antibiotic eye ointment work?
When the ointment is placed inside the conjunctival sac (the pocket between the lower eyelid and the eye), it spreads with blinking over the eye surface and eliminates existing bacteria, reducing discharge and redness within days. In cats specifically, inflammation often starts with a viral infection followed by a bacterial infection, where the ointment treats the bacterial part and prevents the condition from worsening.
How to choose the right eye ointment?
- Type of animal: Choose a product registered for veterinary use and suitable for cats and dogs.
- Type of condition: Bacterial inflammation requires an antibiotic, while simple irritation from dust may only need a gentle eye cleanser.
- Avoid human medicines: Some human eye drops contain cortisone, which may worsen corneal ulcers.
- Consult a veterinarian if the condition does not improve within 3 to 5 days.
Selected products from Shopivet for treating eye inflammation
ilium Opticin Eye Ointment 5g – ilium Opticin Eye Ointment
Chloramphenicol with Polymyxin B for conjunctivitis in dogs and cats. According to the leaflet: Approximately 1 cm strip inside the conjunctival sac two or three times daily.
45 AED
Ashi-Eye Pink Eye Ointment – Ashi-Eye Pink Eye Ointment
For the treatment of eyelid and eye infections in cats, dogs, cattle, and sheep. According to the leaflet: Clean the eye and then apply a sufficient amount twice daily.
30 AED
Diagnos Eye Cleaner 50ml – Beaphar Eye Cleaner
Essential step before ointment: cleans and soothes cat and dog eyes, removing dust and discharge. Apply inside and around the eye.
43.33 AED
How to apply eye ointment for a cat or dog step by step
- Wash your hands well, and clean the discharge around the eye with a cotton pad moistened with eye cleaner.
- Gently stabilize the animal's head, preferably with another person helping you with cats.
- Pull the lower eyelid down to reveal the pink pocket.
- Place the ointment strip inside the pocket without the tube tip touching the eye.
- Gently close the eye and massage it slightly to spread the ointment.
- Reward your animal with a small treat to make the next time easier.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Stopping treatment as soon as the eye improves; it's better to complete the duration as specified by the doctor or leaflet.
- Using the same tube for more than one animal, as it may spread infection.
- Touching the eye with the tube tip, contaminating the ointment.
- Using human drops containing cortisone without consultation.
- Ignore the condition if it appears in both eyes with sneezing or lethargy, as it may be a respiratory infection that needs examination.
Frequently asked questions about treating eye inflammation in cats and dogs
Can cat eye inflammation be treated at home?
Simple cases of bacterial conjunctivitis often improve with veterinary antibiotic ointment and eye cleaning, but any severe pain or opacity in the eye requires examination.
How many days does it take to treat eye inflammation?
Improvement usually begins within two to three days. If no improvement occurs within 3 to 5 days, consult the veterinarian.
What is the difference between ointment and drops?
The ointment stays longer on the eye surface and requires fewer applications, while the drop is easier to apply but needs more frequent repetition throughout the day.
Is eye inflammation in cats contagious?
Yes, many of its cases are contagious among cats, so separate the infected cat and wash your hands after handling it.
Can I use human eye drops for my dog?
It is not recommended without consultation, as some human drops contain substances that may harm the animal's eye.
When should you visit the veterinarian immediately?
- Appearance of opacity or a white or blue spot on the eye.
- Severe pain causing the animal to refuse to open its eye.
- Eye injury due to a scratch or foreign object.
- No improvement after 3 to 5 days of treatment.
For caring for your animal's ears and skin as well, read our guide on the best antiseptic and antifungal for ears and skin for pets.
Note: This article is for general education and does not replace a veterinary examination. Always follow the leaflet or your doctor's prescription.
Not sure about the right ointment for your animal? Contact our licensed veterinary pharmacy
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