Cats are known to have very adorable eyes. These special tools help them see and tell the story of their emotions and feelings. But when those eyes get watery and sparkling, this tends to be a problem. Cats are sensitive creatures, which is why it falls upon us to take care of them.
Watery eyes in cats can mean several things, with most of them being concerning ones. In this blog, we’ll discover the common reasons why a cat’s eyes get watery as well as how we can help them.
What Are Watery Eyes in Cats?
Watery eyes in cats are also known as epiphora. This is a condition in which their eyes experience an abnormal overflow of tears, which can be due to blocked tear ducts or excessive tear production.
This condition can range from a mild symptom to a severe situation, which is why finding out quickly is important.
What Causes Watery Eyes in Cats?
Cats can get watery eyes from several conditions and factors, which include:
Blocked Tear Ducts
Tear ducts are the openings that work as a drainage for tears. When tear drainage systems are blocked, tears can remain in the eyes and cause them to look watery. This can lead to a multitude of problems for your cat, such as eye irritation and infection.
Since these tear ducts are blocked, tears can also find their way to your cat’s face and skin. This is often the reason why some cats can have dark stains under their eyes, which are known as tear stains.
Allergies
Allergies are the responses of a cat’s immune system whenever an allergen comes into contact with them. Allergens around the environment, such as dust, pollen, dirt, and mold, can be the reason why your cat has watery eyes.
In many cases, even household chemicals such as cleaners and perfumes can be allergens for your cat.
Infections
Another possible reason why your cat has watery eyes is eye infections. This happens because the inflammation involved prompts the body to produce excess tears to flush out the irritants and fight off the infection.
One common condition is conjunctivitis, an infection in which the cat’s conjunctiva gets inflamed.
Foreign Objects
Small objects, such as grass and toys, can also cause watery eyes in cats. It happens when the foreign object directly hits the eye’s surface, leading to irritation that makes the body produce tears to flush it away. This is especially concerning for curious and active cats.
Genetics and Anatomical Issues
While watery eyes are common in cats, some breeds experience them even more. A common example is brachycephalic breeds. Persians, Himalayans, and Exotic Shorthairs have flat faces and pushed-in noses.
Because of this facial structure, they have distorted tear ducts and shallow eye sockets, making them susceptible to watery eyes.
Eye Injuries
Cats can also get watery eyes because of physical injuries. These might happen when your cat comes into contact with hazardous surfaces or fights with other cats. Plus, this can also result in corneal ulcers, which is another problem in itself.
How to Know if a Cat Has Watery Eyes?
Even though epiphora is a symptom, there are other signs that tell you a cat has watery eyes. These include:
Wetness and Tear Stains. A clear sign of watery eyes in cats is when the eyes look wet. In some cases, the tears may also run down their face, causing streaks of dark-colored fur.
Redness or Swelling. In many eye conditions that cause tearing, the tissues around the eyes can appear red or swollen.
Excessive Blinking or Squinting. Along with tearing, some cats may repeatedly blink or squint as a response to the irritation they feel.
Pawing at the Eye. Cats with watery eyes also tend to paw at them because of the constant discomfort they feel.
Eye Discharge. In some cases, discharge can be present. This can range from clear and watery to thick, yellow, or green.
How Do Vets Diagnose the Cause of Watery Eyes in Cats?
To determine the cause of your cat’s watery eyes, we’ll have to do an initial inspection. Here, our pet ophthalmologists will assess your cat’s eyes and other symptoms they may have. Plus, we’ll also ask you for your observations at home.
After this, we can proceed to a few laboratory tests.
Schirmer Tear Test. This test measures the amount of tears your cat’s eyes produce. We do this by inserting a small strip of paper under the lower eyelid.
Eye Staining Test. A special dye will be applied to the eye. This will highlight any scratches or damage on the surface of the eye when using a blue light.
Tonometry. This test allows us to check for intraocular pressure, helping us determine if glaucoma is involved or not.
Cytology and Culture. A sample will be collected to identify any pathogens involved. These are analyzed through a microscope or a culture.
Imaging. We can also use CT scans or MRIs to check for any blocked tear ducts or other abnormalities involved.
How to Treat a Cat’s Watery Eyes
Treating watery eyes in cats means dealing with the main issue that’s causing it.
Medication
When the cause of your cat’s watery eyes comes from bacterial and viral infections, medications such as topical antibiotics and antiviral eye drops are administered. These would inhibit the growth of these microbes and help your cat recover from the infection.
An anti-inflammatory agent would also be added to the mix to reduce any swelling and discomfort. For allergies, antihistamines and other supportive medications will be provided. These medicines are readily available at our vet pharmacy.
Surgery
For more serious cases, surgery would be the answer. These are usually for cats with deformed eyelids and damaged tear ducts. Surgery will also be done when removing any foreign object that has been causing the tearing.
Flushing
Flushing your cat’s eyes out with saline by using a small tube can help clear the blocked duct. This can effectively clear a pathway for the tears, which gradually solves the problem.
Vet Tips: How to Prevent Watery Eyes in Cats
Prevention is always a good strategy to save your cat from all the pain and trouble. Here are a few tips:
Keep Your Cat’s Face Clean
Always check your cat’s eyes at least once a week. If you see anything concerning, such as debris or discharge, gently wipe it off with a soft, damp cloth.
Sanitize the Home
Vacuum your home regularly and pay special attention to carpets, rugs, bedding, and pillows. Make sure your cat’s living areas are clean and free of anything that might irritate their eyes.
Protect Your Cat
Avoid contact with sick cats and keep your cat’s vaccinations up to date. Also, you should supervise your cat if they go outside for some outdoor activity.
Schedule Checkups
We recommend having your cat over at the clinic at least once a year for a wellness check. Here, we can take special care of their eyes and recommend the best ways to keep them clean and safe at home.
“Tending to our cat’s eyes is one way we can protect their happiness.”
- Dr. Soheyl Simaei
Final Thoughts
A sign as simple as watery eyes should not be taken for granted. When you notice it, the best thing to do is to act quickly. Our cats need our help with their care, so let’s do the best we can.
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