The Fosters: It’s Always Something

Over the years I’ve learned not to say that I’ve seen everything, even after so many years working with and living with animals. There’s always something new to challenge us (besides the Covid-19 virus).

The little calico kitten gave me something new to learn today. The eyes of the kittens are all open now, but the calico had one eye glued shut, and a swelling about the size of a pea next to that closed eye. I got a warm compress and started to try to wipe it off gently, and much to my surprise, tons of pus came shooting out the swelling. I have to credit seeing this kind of abscess on a variety of vet shows that I watch, so aside from it being a little gross, I knew what it was.

The eye, however, was still glued shut, and the puss indicated infection. Fortunately I was able to get my hands on an antibiotic opthamalic ointment to loosen the crust and start treating her. An hour after she got the ointment, I was able to remove all the crud and she could open her eye.

Terrible photo, because she won’t stand still, but you get the idea! The eye is a little red, but it is at least open, and a few days of antibiotic ointment will probably do the trick. She is the same kitten who had the hardest time breathing and nursing at first, and is definitely the runt of the litter. True to calico spirit, she’s gonna keep me working hard for her! I may need to locate a nurses cap.

In other news, Hannah is now playing and having a wonderful time with my Katipede wand. I love seeing her play finally. She is, after all, just a kitten herself. I’ll try to get you a video tomorrow.