Pet hair and dander can irritate a healing eye and increase infection risk, but you do not usually need to avoid your pet completely.
Reducing exposure in the early days
Soon after surgery, the eye surface is more vulnerable. Taking simple precautions keeps you comfortable while staying close to your animal.
- Avoid letting pets sleep on your pillow or near your face
- Wash hands after stroking or grooming your pet
- Keep the healing eye shielded when cuddling, especially with energetic animals
- Ask someone else to manage grooming and cleaning litter trays initially
Keeping the environment clean
Good household hygiene helps reduce airborne hair and dust. This supports comfortable healing for allergy sufferers too.
- Vacuum and dust regularly, using a filter where possible
- Wash bedding and soft furnishings frequently
- Use prescribed lubricating drops if the eye feels irritated
- Seek advice if redness, itching, or watering worsen around pets
