Cats can experience various forms of eye discharge. While a small amount of “sleep” in the corner of their eyes is normal, other types might signal a health concern. Understanding normal and abnormal discharge helps owners maintain their pet’s ocular health. This guide covers identifying different types of discharge, how to safely clean your cat’s eyes, and when a vet visit is necessary.
Types and Causes of Eye Discharge
Healthy cat eyes are bright and clear, producing minimal discharge. This often appears as small, dry, clear or reddish-brown crusts near the inner corner of the eye, particularly after waking. This normal eye “booger” is part of the eye’s self-cleaning process, flushing out minor irritants. However, continuous or excessive discharge throughout the day suggests a need for closer attention.
Abnormal eye discharge can manifest in several ways, each indicating a different underlying issue. Watery eyes (epiphora) involve an overflow of clear tears. This can result from allergies to environmental factors like dust, pollen, or cleaning products. Irritants such as smoke or foreign bodies like dust or hair can also cause excessive tearing.
Blocked tear ducts, which normally drain tears into the nose, can lead to tears spilling over the eyelids. Certain flat-faced breeds, like Persians and Himalayans, are prone to watery eyes due to their facial structure affecting tear drainage.
Thick, colored discharge (yellow, green, white, or sticky) often points to an infection. Feline Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs), caused by viruses (e.g., feline herpesvirus, calicivirus) or bacteria (e.g., Chlamydia), frequently present with such discharge, sometimes accompanied by sneezing or nasal discharge. Conjunctivitis (“pinkeye”) is an inflammation of the eye’s lining that can cause redness, swelling, and clear, teary, or thick mucus discharge. Corneal disorders (inflammation, injury, or ulceration of the eye’s outer surface) can also lead to cloudiness, increased blinking, and discharge. Dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), where insufficient tears are produced, can result in a yellow, gooey discharge, inflamed corneas, and redness.
How to Safely Clean Your Cat’s Eyes
Cleaning your cat’s eyes is appropriate for normal, dry, and easily removable discharge. If the discharge is abnormal in color, consistency, or quantity, or if your cat shows signs of discomfort, consult a veterinarian before attempting any cleaning.
To safely clean your cat’s eyes, gather supplies: a soft, clean cloth or cotton ball and warm water or a feline-specific saline solution. Approach your cat gently and calmly to minimize stress. Carefully wipe discharge away from the inner corner of the eye, moving outwards. Use a fresh section of the cloth or a new cotton ball for each wipe and each eye to prevent spreading irritants or infection.
Avoid direct contact with the eyeball and never use harsh chemicals or human eye drops unless instructed by your veterinarian. Proper hygiene prevents secondary infections and ensures your cat’s comfort. If irritation occurs or discharge persists or worsens after cleaning, seek veterinary advice promptly.
Signs That Warrant a Vet Visit
While some eye discharge is normal, various signs indicate a more serious problem requiring professional medical attention. Persistent or excessive tearing throughout the day, not just after sleep, is a concern. Thick, discolored discharge (yellow, green, white, brown, or bloody) strongly suggests an infection or injury.
Warning signs include redness or inflammation of the eye or eyelids, swelling around the eye, or if your cat is squinting, blinking excessively, or holding an eye shut. Frequent pawing at the eye or rubbing the face against furniture can indicate pain or irritation. Other symptoms include a visible foreign object in the eye, cloudiness, changes in pupil size or shape, or sensitivity to light.
If eye discharge is accompanied by systemic symptoms like sneezing, lethargy, decreased appetite, or fever, this often points to a broader illness, such as an upper respiratory infection. Any discharge lasting more than a few days or progressively worsening warrants immediate veterinary consultation. Early intervention can prevent more severe complications, including permanent vision impairment or blindness.