Excessive tearing or watery eyes in cats can be concerning for cat owners. While not always a serious medical problem, chronic tearing can affect your cat’s comfort and facial cleanliness. Understanding the possible causes and proper care techniques can help you respond appropriately and keep your cat healthy.
Signs of Watery Eyes in Cats
Cats normally produce tears to keep their eyes moist and healthy. However, excessive tearing becomes noticeable when tears overflow down the face, leaving the fur around the eyes constantly wet or stained. Other signs include:
- Persistent tearing or discharge
- Redness or inflammation around the eyes
- “Crusty” buildup or eye discharge, especially after sleep
- Squinting or frequent blinking
- Discolored fur around the eyes from tear staining
In some cats, especially those with light-colored fur, the tear staining can become quite visible, turning the hairs around the eyes yellow or brown.
Common Causes of Watery Eyes in Cats
There are several reasons a cat’s eyes might produce excessive tears, ranging from mild irritation to underlying health issues:
1. Foreign Objects and Eye Irritation
Dust, grass, tiny particles, or debris can get into a cat’s eye during play or outdoor exploration. The eye reacts by producing tears to flush out the irritant. If the object remains embedded, it can lead to further irritation or infection if not addressed.
2. Conjunctivitis (Inflammation of the Eye)
Conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the tissues around the eye, can cause redness, discharge, and tearing. It may be due to infection, allergies, or environmental factors.
3. Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs)
Viral or bacterial infections affecting the nose and throat (commonly called “cat flu”) can also affect the eyes. These infections often cause conjunctivitis alongside tearing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and general lethargy.
4. Blocked Tear Ducts and Anatomical Issues
If the tear ducts are malformed, blocked, or do not drain properly, tears can overflow instead of draining normally into the nose. This is more common in certain breeds with flat faces, such as Persians or Exotic Shorthairs.
5. Allergies
Allergies to pollen, dust, chemicals, or grooming products can trigger eye irritation and increased tear production. Symptoms may include watery eyes along with scratching, sneezing, or skin irritation.
6. External Environmental Factors
Exposure to wind, smoke, strong fragrances, cleaning chemicals, or even shampoo residue can irritate a cat’s eyes and trigger tearing as a protective response.
How to Care for a Cat with Watery Eyes
1. Clean the Eye Area Gently
For mild discharge, use a soft, warm damp cloth or sterile cotton pad to wipe away crust and debris from the corners of the eyes. Always wipe from the inner corner toward the outside to avoid spreading bacteria.
2. Check for Foreign Objects
If you suspect dust or a foreign particle has entered your cat’s eye, you can rinse the eye gently with sterile saline solution. Do not use cotton swabs or sharp tools, as these can injure the eye.
3. Identify Underlying Causes
If tearing is chronic, accompanied by redness, swelling, yellow or green discharge, frequent blinking, or if your cat seems uncomfortable, a vet examination is essential. Your veterinarian can diagnose conditions like conjunctivitis, infections, or blocked tear ducts and recommend appropriate treatment.
When to See a Veterinarian
Certain warning signs warrant professional care:
- Persistent and heavy tearing
- Thick discharge or pus around the eye
- Frequent rubbing or squinting
- Vision changes or sensitivity to light
- Foul odor or swelling around the eye
Any sign that the eye condition is affecting your cat’s behavior or vision should prompt a veterinarian visit, as some underlying causes may require medication, antibiotics, or surgical intervention.
Breed-Related Tearing Tendencies
Some cat breeds naturally have more watery eyes due to their facial structure. Breeds with flat faces, such as Persians, Himalayans, and Exotic Shorthairs, are prone to tear overflow and staining since their tear ducts may not drain efficiently.
Conclusion
Cats may develop watery eyes for a variety of reasons—from simple irritation to more complex medical issues. While occasional tearing can be normal, persistent or excessive eyes watering deserves attention and monitoring. Gentle eye cleaning at home can help with minor symptoms, but if the condition persists, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
