Your cat's eye is likely weeping because of an irritation or infection. Just like in humans, discharge from a cat's eye, especially if goopy or sticky, often indicates an underlying issue.
Possible Causes of Weeping Eyes in Cats
There are several reasons why your cat's eye might be weeping:
- Infection: This is the most common cause.
- Viral Infections: Clear discharge can often indicate a viral infection. Feline herpesvirus is a frequent culprit.
- Bacterial Infections: Green or yellow discharge typically suggests a bacterial infection.
- Allergies: Just like humans, cats can be allergic to things in their environment (pollen, dust, mold, etc.). Allergies often cause watery eyes.
- Irritation: Foreign objects (like dust or debris) can irritate the eye and cause it to water.
- Blocked Tear Duct: Tears drain through the nasolacrimal duct. If this duct is blocked, tears will overflow and the eye will appear to be weeping.
- Corneal Ulcer: An ulcer on the cornea (the clear front part of the eye) can cause pain and excessive tearing.
- Glaucoma: This condition involves increased pressure within the eye and can cause weeping, along with other symptoms.
- Entropion: This is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea, leading to irritation and weeping.
- Conjunctivitis (Pinkeye): This is an inflammation of the conjunctiva (the membrane that lines the eyelids and covers part of the eyeball), often caused by infection or allergies.
What To Do If Your Cat's Eye Is Weeping
- Observe the Discharge: Note the color and consistency of the discharge. This information can be helpful for your veterinarian.
- Check for Other Symptoms: Look for other signs of illness, such as sneezing, coughing, lethargy, loss of appetite, or squinting.
- Clean the Eye: Gently clean around the eye with a warm, damp cloth to remove any discharge.
- Consult a Veterinarian: It is crucial to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. Never use human eye drops on your cat without veterinary guidance.
When To Seek Immediate Veterinary Care
Seek immediate veterinary care if you notice any of the following:
- Severe pain or squinting
- Cloudiness of the eye
- Protrusion of the third eyelid
- Swelling around the eye
- Vision loss
A veterinarian can determine the underlying cause of your cat's weeping eye and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics, antiviral medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, or other therapies. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure your cat's comfort and well-being.
