Where to Buy Terramycin for Cats

It's OTC in most states but talk to a veterinarian first

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Most of the time, buying Terramycin eye ointment for cats only requires a quick trip to the pet store or a few minutes to order it from an online pet supplier. However, even though it is an over-the-counter medication in most states, a veterinarian should be consulted before using Terramycin for cats.

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What is Terramycin for cats?

Terramycin is an antibacterial medication that a veterinarian may prescribe to treat bacterial infections in cats.‌ For cats, Terramycin ophthalmic ointment can be used to treat bacterial eye infections.

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The broad-spectrum antibiotic includes active ingredients oxytetracycline hydrochloride and polymyxin b sulfate. Oxytetracycline hydrochloride functions by inhibiting bacteria from manufacturing proteins that assist them in multiplying. Polymyxin b sulfate helps kill the bacteria that are causing the infection.

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What is Terramycin used for in cats?

Terramycin is used to treat a broad spectrum of eye infections in cats.‌ It's regularly given to pets who have chlamydia eye infections, corneal ulcers, pink eye, blepharitis, conjunctivitis, eyelid inflammation, and inflamed corneas from keratitis. Terramycin has FDA approval for use as an ointment for dogs and horses as well.

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Where can I buy Terramycin for cats?

Terramycin can be purchased from online pet supply stores or brick-and-mortar pet supply stores in most areas of the United States.‌ In California, a prescription from a veterinarian is required to purchase the antibiotic ophthalmic ointment.

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Even though pet owners can often buy Terramycin over the counter, it should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian. Some veterinarian offices may even have Terramycin available for purchase so pets can start treatment as soon as possible.

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How to apply Terramycin for cats

Applying Terramycin properly is crucial for cats to have a full recovery from their eye infection. To avoid contamination of the medication, the person administering Terramycin should be sure to wash their hands before beginning the application process.

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  • Use a warm washcloth to gently clean the area around the cat's eye and remove any debris.
  • Hold the ointment tube with the tip pointed downward. The hand holding the ointment can rest on top of the cat's head to help keep it steady.
  • With the opposite hand, gently pull down on the cat's lower eyelid with a thumb while using the rest of the hand to support the cat's jaw and keep them in place.
  • Holding the tube close to the eye, squeeze the amount recommended by the veterinarian directly onto the cat's eyeball. The applicator should never touch the cat's eye directly.
  • Release the cat's head and let them blink. The warmth of the cat's eyeball will help melt the ointment and spread it over the surface of the eye.
  • The person administering the ointment should wash their hands after use to prevent the spread of the infection. Terramycin should then be stored at room temperature away from heat and moisture.

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Getting veterinary approval to use Terramycin for cats

Although most states don't require prescriptions for the purchase of Terramycin, it's still vital to always seek veterinary approval before using it on a cat. If the veterinarian thinks that Terramycin is the right treatment method, they will provide instructions on how much and how often the ointment should be administered.

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A veterinarian can also help an owner understand the possible side effects of the medication. Some side effects include lid swelling and blurry vision, which can cause a cat to walk into things. If the cat is pawing at their eye, this could be a sign that the ointment is causing the eye to sting or itch. Owners should be sure to tell the veterinarian about any other eye medications or supplements the cat has used, especially if the cat has had allergic reactions in the past.

The bottom line

Eye care for cats and dogs can cause owners to worry, especially if they notice runny eyes or other eye changes. Fortunately, there are safe medications on the market that can treat diseases or infections of a pet's eye. Before using Terramycin, owners should consult with a veterinarian to determine whether it is the right course of treatment. Owners should only use Terramycin as directed by their pet's veterinarian.

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