Kitten with one eye closed - Possible cold?

Our cat (kitten really- almost 6 months old) has been sleeping all day and now woke up with one eye closed.  Do you think it is a cold?  Should we call the vet tonight or should we take him in the morning? He is sleeping and sleeping all day, and not acting like himself.

Also, we are new to the site, how do you post a picture?

Mister B said:

 
Our cat (kitten really- almost 6 months old) has been sleeping all day and now woke up with one eye closed.  Do you think it is a cold?  Should we call the vet tonight or should we take him in the morning? He is sleeping and sleeping all day, and not acting like himself.

Also, we are new to the site, how do you post a picture?

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Yes, having one eye closed very well could be the beginning of an ocular infection, a cold, or an indication that something else is going on (like an abrasion). To be safe, best to get him to a vet as soon as is feasible. So long as he is eating, drinking, eliminating normally and doesn't seem lethargic then it's likely not an emergency and there is no need to rush him out in the middle of the night. Just get him in as soon as you can get an appointment. I know you said he has been extra sleepy today but that could be because he is fighting an infection and needs the extra rest. If he's really not moving even to eat or use the litterbox then you do want to at least call the after hours vet/ER to get their advice on if he needs to be seen immediately. Use you gut judgement on this as you know him best. 

What are the symptoms associated with the eye? For example, is it just watery or is there a colored discharge coming from it? Different types of discharge could indicate different things (hence why the vet visit is important). Many cats (especially those from a shelter) carry the feline herpes virus (not the same as human herpes and not contagious to humans). But, if that's the case, adding some L-Lysene to his diet can be very helpful in preventing outbreaks. L-Lysene is a natural immune booster that can be found in almost any PetStore or vet office. Since you will be there anyway, ask your vet if it would be a good addition for him. In the meantime if he seems to be uncomfortable you can try adding a warm compress to the eye, and gently wipe the gunk away with a warm cloth. DO NOT give him any over the counter products (like Benadryl) without the guidance and direction of your vet. These products can be highly toxic to cats if not administered properly! 

As for posting pictures, there is an icon in the bar at the top of the reply box that looks like mountain with a sun or moon symbol. If you click this you can upload a photo. I apologize that I don't know how to take a screen shot to show you more specifically. You can also check out the "Site Help" section for more detail about uploading pictures as well as any other tech questions that you may have. http://www.thecatsite.com/f/44/site-help .

Finally, I have asked a moderator to separate your question from the existing thread. When issues present themselves it's always best to start a new thread. Not only will more people see it but it keeps all your questions and answers in one place for easy review. It's by far the best way to get accurate advice! At the top of the Cat Health page you will see a big blue button that says "Start a New thread." And, if you have non-health related questions, you will find the same format in all the other sections for quick and easy posting!

Vibes that nothing serious is going on. Please keep us posted as to what the vet says. 

Welcome to TCS! 

Is he still eating and using the box normally?  It could just be that he's getting ready for a growth spurt.  If the winky eye continues or you see the third eyelid (white membrane in the inner corner of the eye) starting to cover the eye, then definitely head to the vet.  Also, any change in eating or litter box habits is cause for concern and needs to get the vet.