There are a variety of different eye drops for cats that can be used to treat particular conditions of the eye. Sometimes an eye condition may require drops for only a short period of time, and other times it may require the indefinite use of them. Each eye condition is different in origination and the duration of treatment is directly related to the cause of the condition. Here is an overview of some of the more frequently prescribed eye drops for cats.
Timolol Opthalmic Solution
Timolol is a prescription eye medication for cats which is most commonly prescribed for the treatment of glaucoma. This type of solution is highly effective at treating glaucoma that develops from a variety of different causes. Timolol works by interacting with the blood vessels of the eyes and causes the vessels to restrict. When this occurs, the amount of fluid released by the blood vessels will inevitably be reduced. This, in turn, effectively decreases the amount of pressure in a cat's eye.
Timolol is given in drop format and the frequency and dosage at which it is administered is best determined by a veterinarian. However, because the bottle is a dropper and is used directly on a cat's eye, it is important to make sure that the bottle does not become cross-contaminated; as this can cause secondary infections of the eye.
Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate Opthalmic Solution
Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid used primarily for treating inflammation of the eye. The corticosteroid targets the vessels and muscles of the eyes to reduce swelling associated with infections, surgery and direct injury. The dosage of this medication is not general and will need to be determined by a veterinarian. In most cases, the dosing amount will need to be determined by the extent of the swelling and any other conditions affecting the eye.
One of the most important things to know about this medication is that its usage should never be stopped unless directed. While side effects are rare, they are more likely to occur when Dexamethasone has been taken consistently and then abruptly stopped.
Gentimicin Sulfate Opthalmic Solution
Gentimicin is a prescription eye medication used to treat susceptible bacteria. What this means is that not all bacterial eye infections can be treated by it; but rather that certain types of bacteria are susceptible to the agents contained in this medication. Gentimicin works by attaching itself to the bacteria and interrupts its life cycle and ability to reproduce.
There are usually very few, if any, side effects encountered with this medication. More common side effects may include irritation of the eye, burning, itching or general light sensitivity. These side effects should not be immediate cause for panic, but they should be discussed with a veterinarian to determine if it the medication is suitable to the cat.