What to Do After a Cat Scratch Near the Eye When No Eye Clinic Is Open?

Q: What to Do After a Cat Scratch Near the Eye When No Eye Clinic Is Open?

Hello, Mr. <br>Chen： Sometimes, minor scratches on the cornea are not visible to the naked eye. <br>If the scratch is very mild, the cornea will recover quickly; however, it is still important to monitor for any signs of infection. <br>Please seek medical attention as soon as the

I just got scratched by a cat, and the ophthalmology clinic is closed on Sundays. What should I do?

Hello, Doctor.
About an hour ago, I was scratched in the eye by my cat.
There is a noticeable wound and bleeding on the outer lower eyelid.
I used saline solution to rinse it, but when I checked my eyeball in the mirror, there were no signs of bleeding or injury.
However, my eye continues to feel dry, sore, and very tense.
Unfortunately, it's Sunday and the ophthalmology clinics are closed.
I called the nearby major hospital's emergency department, but they informed me that they do not have ophthalmology equipment.
I think that even if I go to the emergency room, it would likely be similar to what I can do at home—just checking for external injuries.
Therefore, I would like to ask you, Doctor, is it normal to feel dryness and soreness in my eye even though my eyeball and cornea are not injured? Thank you very much.

Chen Dada, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/08/11

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Mr.
Chen: Sometimes, minor scratches on the cornea are not visible to the naked eye.
If the scratch is very mild, the cornea will recover quickly; however, it is still important to monitor for any signs of infection.
Please seek medical attention as soon as the ophthalmology clinic opens.
With treatment, you should recover quickly.
During this time, try to keep your eyes closed and rest.
The ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses are for reference only; it is essential to visit a medical facility if necessary.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Best regards, Gao Pilin.

Reply Date: 2019/08/11

More Info

If you have been scratched near the eye by a cat and are experiencing dryness and pain, it is essential to take the situation seriously, even if you do not see any visible injuries to the eyeball or cornea. Here are some steps you can take while waiting for an opportunity to see an eye specialist:
1. Clean the Area: You have already taken a good first step by rinsing the area with saline solution. Continue to keep the area clean to prevent infection. Avoid touching the scratch with dirty hands.

2. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: It is crucial not to rub your eyes, as this can exacerbate irritation or cause further injury, even if you do not see any visible damage.

3. Monitor for Symptoms: Keep an eye out for any changes in your symptoms. If you notice increased redness, swelling, discharge, or worsening pain, these could be signs of infection or other complications that require immediate medical attention.

4. Use Artificial Tears: If your eye feels dry and uncomfortable, using preservative-free artificial tears can help lubricate the eye and alleviate some discomfort. However, avoid using any eye drops that are not specifically designed for lubrication unless directed by a healthcare professional.

5. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the area around the eye can help reduce swelling and provide some relief from pain. Make sure the compress is clean and not too cold to avoid frostbite.

6. Avoid Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, it is advisable to avoid using them until you can see a doctor. Contact lenses can irritate the eye further and increase the risk of infection.

7. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage discomfort. Follow the dosage instructions on the packaging.

8. Seek Medical Attention: Although you mentioned that local eye clinics are closed, if your symptoms worsen or if you develop new symptoms (such as vision changes, severe pain, or increased redness), consider going to the emergency room. Even if they do not have an ophthalmologist on-site, they can assess your condition and may refer you to a facility that does.

9. Follow Up: Once you are able to see an eye specialist, make sure to discuss the incident and any symptoms you experienced. They may perform a thorough examination, including checking for any potential damage to the cornea or other structures of the eye that may not be immediately visible.

In summary, while it is possible that your symptoms of dryness and pain could be due to irritation from the scratch or anxiety about the injury, it is essential to remain vigilant. If your condition does not improve or worsens, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Eye injuries can sometimes lead to complications, and timely intervention is crucial for preserving eye health.

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