Feline Eye Discharge

If you notice that your cat has been rubbing at its eyes or that there is a yellow or brown crust clinging to the fur near its eyes, your cat might be showing signs of feline eye discharge. Feline eye discharge can point to many issues, and it is important to make sure that you are aware of what this condition might mean.

  1. Causes

    • Feline eye discharge is caused by any blockage of tear drainage in the cat's eye. It can occur due to misshapen tear ducts or abnormal tear duct openings.

    Significance

    • Feline eye discharge can be a sign of many different issues. It could point to an inflammation of the eye such as keratitis or conjunctivitis, or it might point to a genetic defect in the eyes or the eyelids. Corneal ulcers or glaucoma can also be an issue, as can a displacement of the lens. Allergies and respiratory problems can also result in discharge from the eyes.

    Features

    • Feline eye discharge is often accompanied by several other factors. You might notice tear stains around the cat's eyes, or reddened inner eyelids. The eye itself might appear dull or cloudy, or you may be able to observe the cat tearing up and watering from the eye.

    Identification

    • When a cat is showing signs of feline eye discharge, a veterinarian may use several tests to discover what is going on. Ocular pressure might be used to find signs of glaucoma, while a Schirmer tear test can determine how much discharge is occurring. A fluroscein stain can detect corneal ulcers.

    Warning

    • Feline eye discharge is a sign that something is wrong with your cat. If sudden eye discharge does not clear up within 24 hours, take the cat to the veterinarian. Do not try to treat the cat for any feline eye discharge until you know what the issue is, as different problems require different treatments.