Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) in Cats
By: Dr. Alexandra Van der Woerdt

Section: Follow-up

It is important that treatments are done on a consistent basis. Most cats with KCS cannot be cured, but the disease can be controlled with medications. Diligent care is often necessary long term to keep the cat comfortable.

Care at home also consists of keeping the eye lubricated and clean.

If the cat tolerates it, you can use an irrigating eye solution to rinse the eye to remove the discharge that is present. The irrigating eye solution can be obtained without a prescription at any drug store. Gently rinse the eye and remove the discharge using a tissue. If the cat does not tolerate the eyewash, then remove the discharge with a warm, wet cloth. Always remove excessive discharge from the eye prior to application of medication.

Return for regular follow-up visits to re-evaluate the tear production.

Monitor the eye for changes. If the discharge or redness gets worse despite treatment, have your cat re-evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible.