Kitten eye problems?!?!

[LosingMyMindInGA]

Three of the four kittens we brought home are still doing well.  (We lost one unfortunately)  They are all eating and going potty as they should.  

This afternoon DD14 was feeding them and noticed that one of them has what appears to be an abscess on his left eye.  It's swollen about twice the size of his right.  This wasn't there last night or earlier this morning.  I've tried doing some on-line research but have gottan many different theories.  Some of them say this is normal and should resolve itself, but not to worry until they are closer to two weeks old?  

For those of you who know more about this.  What should we do?  It's not oozing or weeping, the eye socket is still completely closed.  They are 5 days old today.

I've included a picture if it helps.  

[LosingMyMindInGA]

Thanks for the info.  I will definitely check out that website.  We did stop using the soap.  Now we just wipe them down with a warm, wet cloth...no cleaning agents at all.  I'm not sure it would be from overstimulating because we try to focus more on the body and less on the head in order to avoid the eyes, nose and mouth.  I have some contact solution, so i'll have to check and see if it's sterile (it's the walmart Equate brand, just plain jane stuff).  

Thusfar, it doesn't seem to be bothering him, but we'll monitor him to see if it gets worse or better.  Fortunately our only other animals are 2 outside cats, so less chance of cross-contamination of anything.  Thanks again for your help...


I'll keep you posted!

[opus88]

I am sending you a website that may help with more info, that certainly looks like it may develop into an abscess. I know these are rescue kittens and you may not have the finances for Vet care...but if this doesn't clear soon it maybe necessary to find away to have this checked out. since it can be a symptom of calivirus or other diseases....the litter may all become ill.

http://www.medicinenet.com/pets/cat-health/conjunctivitis_or_pinkeye_in_cats.htm

It 'could' be from over stimulating the area when cleaning...if you are still using shampoo or soap I would stop..
I would buy some STERILE saline contact lens solution and very GENTLY wipe the eye, it this is just a small infection it will help......
If you have other animals in the house be sure to wash very carefully both before and after handling these kittens... so not to spread anything around.

good luck...wish I could help more...♥