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Kittens with matted eyes and pus: Is this distemper or something else?

Updated on September 23, 2025

I wanted to know just how does kittens get distemper if this is what it is that they have, cause when they were born about 4 weeks ago they were all alright. Now I lost 1 yesterday and about to lose another one. The one has pus coming out of his eyes plus matted shut, but is still eating when he can find the food. He's still hanging in there still alive when I thought he would be dead the next day.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on August 12, 2017

The symptoms you describe do not fit with the most common symptoms of distemper in cats (also called panleukopenia). With this virus the most common initial symptoms are vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.

The symptoms you have described fit more with an upper respiratory infection or severe conjunctivitis. Upper respiratory infections can range from mild sniffles to very severe breathing issues and even death. Sometimes they are caused by a bacteria, but more commonly they are caused by a virus. Antibiotics and/or Lysine supplements are usually prescribed.

Severe conjunctivitis in kittens can be caused by either a bacteria or virus. If there is a purulent discharge, I recommend that the kittens be checked by a vet as soon as possible. Severe inflammation of the cornea can affect vision, and some cats will go blind. Eye medications that include an antibiotic or antiviral are commonly prescribed.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 14, 2019

    Poor kitties. It sounds like all the kittens have an upper airway infection, which is usually caused by a viral initially, that then turns into a bacterial infection. I do hope that these kitties make it. Taking them in to the vet is the best option here and will help them once they are prescribed some antibiotics to help clear up thier airway. Using a humidifer can also help them breathe a bit better.
    Best of luck with these precious kitties and I hope that they can start to thrive soon! Take care.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Answered By David Darvishian

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 12, 2017

    Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Lola. Even though you may not notice any signs, he may be experiencing the beginning of an upper respiratory infection. Early signs include fever (lethargy), decreased food/water intake, decreased activity, sneezing, squinting of one or both eyes, difficulty swallowing from inflammation, etc. Other causes could include fever from another cause (often times we never know what causes it, called Fever Of Unknown Origin), pain, intestinal parasites, recent vaccines or treatments, etc. I would advise that your veterinarian take a look at Lola as soon as possible to assess what is going on. Your vet can take a detailed history and do a thorough physical exam. They may advise diagnostics which could include fecal/blood tests, x-rays, urinalysis, etc. Once a diagnosis is made or suspected, a sound treatment plan can be discussed and implemented. Fluids, electrolytes, antibiotics, pain medicine, dewormer, medicine for fever, etc are some of the possible treatments. Good luck with Lola

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Answered By Mirissa Duncil, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 18, 2017

    Hi there. Upper respiratory infections in kittens are very common (whether viral or bacterial in origin). If you are noticing purulent discharge it is time to take him in to see your veterinarian. Likely he will get a course of antibiotics and whatever else your veterinarian deems appropriate treatment. They can get quite ill if not treated quickly at such a young age. I hope this helps.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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