Nothing pulls at your heartstrings like a tiny kitten struggling to open its eyes—especially when they’re sealed shut with crust, discharge, or swelling. If you’ve found a kitten like this, or your own has developed matted eyes, you’re likely wondering: what’s wrong, is it contagious, and what can I do?
In this guide, we’ll cover the most common causes of matted or closed eyes in kittens, how to safely clean and care for them at home, when it’s time to call the vet, and how to prevent it from recurring. If illness is leading to stress-related behaviors like spraying, we’ll also share a natural solution to restore calm to your home.
Why Are My Kitten’s Eyes Matted Shut?
Matted or crusty eyes in kittens are usually caused by infection—most commonly a viral or bacterial upper respiratory infection (URI). Discharge builds up and dries, sealing the eyelids together. This is especially common in kittens under 8 weeks old, whose immune systems are still developing.
The condition can affect one or both eyes and range from mild to severe. If untreated, it can lead to eye damage, pain, or even blindness in young kittens.
Top Causes of Matted Eyes in Kittens
1. Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1)
The most common cause of eye infections in kittens is feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1). It spreads easily—especially in shelters, outdoor colonies, or multi-cat households—and causes symptoms like:
- Eye discharge (clear, yellow, or green)
- Sneezing or nasal congestion
- Swollen eyelids or conjunctivitis
- Lethargy or lack of appetite
2. Chlamydia or Mycoplasma (Bacterial Infections)
These bacteria can infect the eyes and cause severe conjunctivitis. Discharge tends to be thicker and yellow-green. While treatable with antibiotics, they require vet diagnosis and care.
3. Poor Hygiene or Orphaned Kittens
Newborn kittens rely on their mother to groom them. Orphans or neglected litters may develop crusty buildup from dried tears or milk, especially if they can’t clean themselves yet. Dirty bedding and lack of stimulation worsen the problem.
4. Blocked Tear Ducts
A temporary blockage of the tear duct can cause overflow and matted fur. While not usually serious, it can mimic infection and lead to secondary issues if untreated.
5. Eye Trauma or Irritants
Dust, debris, or rough play with littermates may irritate a kitten’s eye, leading to inflammation and discharge. Allergens in bedding or cleaning products may also play a role.
Illness can affect more than just physical health. If your kitten’s discomfort is leading to stress behaviors like spraying, aggression, or isolation, emotional balance is just as important.
Try Cat Spray No More—a natural, vet-approved method to eliminate stress-driven behaviors and restore peace to your home.
What You Can Do at Home
If your kitten’s eyes are mildly crusted but they’re alert, eating, and otherwise okay, you can start with gentle home care. However, for severe symptoms (swelling, closed eyes, yellow pus), call your vet first.
1. Prepare a Warm Compress
- Soak a clean, soft cloth or cotton ball in warm (not hot) water
- Gently hold it against the closed eye for 30–60 seconds
- This loosens dried discharge and allows the eye to open without force
2. Wipe From Inner to Outer Corner
- Use a clean cloth or cotton round for each eye to prevent spreading infection
- Wipe gently from the tear duct outward
- Repeat several times a day as needed
3. Keep the Kitten Warm and Clean
URI symptoms worsen in cold, damp conditions. Make sure the kitten has soft bedding, is kept indoors, and is away from drafts or stressors.
4. Isolate If Needed
If you have other cats, especially unvaccinated ones, separate the sick kitten to avoid spreading the virus or bacteria. Always wash your hands between handling cats.
When to Call the Vet
You should call the vet if:
- The eyes are swollen shut or leaking yellow/green pus
- The kitten is not nursing, eating, or is lethargic
- The infection hasn’t improved in 2–3 days
- You see ulcers, bleeding, or cloudy pupils
- The kitten is younger than 4 weeks old
Veterinary treatment may include:
- Antibiotic eye ointment or drops
- Oral antibiotics for systemic infection
- Antiviral medications in some cases
- Supportive care like fluids or assisted feeding
Never use human eye drops or leftover pet medications without veterinary approval—they could make the situation worse.
Preventing Future Eye Infections in Kittens
Once your kitten is feeling better, take these steps to reduce the risk of recurrence:
- Keep bedding clean and dry—wash blankets every few days
- Ensure proper ventilation without drafts
- Use unscented, pet-safe cleaning products
- Wash hands before and after handling kittens
- Vaccinate kittens starting at 6–8 weeks to protect against FHV
Special Considerations for Orphaned or Rescue Kittens
If you’re fostering or caring for rescued kittens, eye infections are extremely common—especially in outdoor colonies or crowded shelter conditions. Follow these tips:
- Weigh kittens daily to monitor growth and health
- Stimulate urination and bowel movements in very young kittens
- Keep them away from adult cats until cleared by a vet
- Watch for signs of stress, like hiding or excessive crying
Orphaned kittens are especially vulnerable to stress-related illness and behavior problems later in life. The earlier you establish a calm, secure routine, the better their long-term outcomes.
Feline stress often leads to behavioral issues like spraying—even in very young cats.
Cat Spray No More is a proven, natural guide to stopping stress-driven spraying and nurturing healthier emotional responses—perfect for rescue or multi-cat homes.
How to Tell If It’s Getting Better
Improvement looks like:
- Clearer, brighter eyes with reduced discharge
- Open eyes without crust or swelling
- Increased energy and appetite
- Less sneezing or nasal noise
Stay consistent with cleaning and meds if prescribed, and follow up with your vet if anything worsens or doesn’t improve after a few days.
Common Myths About Kitten Eye Infections
- “It will clear up on its own.” Not always—untreated infections can lead to permanent damage or blindness.
- “Use leftover meds from another cat.” This is dangerous. Inappropriate antibiotics can cause resistance or worsen symptoms.
- “Only dirty kittens get infections.” Even well-cared-for kittens can get viral or bacterial eye issues, especially in multi-cat environments.
Final Thoughts
If your kitten’s eyes are matted shut, don’t panic—but don’t ignore it either. It’s likely a treatable issue like a respiratory infection or irritation, but it requires attention and care. With gentle cleaning, warmth, and vet support when needed, most kittens recover quickly and fully.
And if your kitten’s illness is causing stress-related behaviors—like spraying, hiding, or agitation—emotional healing is just as important as the physical.
Click here to try Cat Spray No More—the natural, holistic method trusted by cat lovers to stop stress-driven spraying and build a more peaceful bond with your feline family.