Watery Eyes in Cats: Meaning, Symptoms and Treatment Process
Watery eyes in cats is a common condition seen in many cats. This condition, technically called epiphora, occurs due to the tears not being distributed properly on the surface of the eye or draining from the tear duct, or due to the presence of some conditions that cause excessive tear production. Epiphora can occur for many different reasons.
Causes of Watery Eyes in Cats
There are many possible causes of watery eyes in cats. For this reason, veterinary treatment and detailed observation are very important for a definitive diagnosis.
- Conjunctivitis: It is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane of the eye. It can develop in response to viruses, bacteria or allergens. Infections, which are especially common in newborn kittens and usually develop as a result of viral factors acquired from the mother during or after pregnancy, lead to conjunctivitis and further eye problems.
- Obstruction of the Tear Duct: If the tear duct is blocked, tears may flow or accumulate in the inner corner of the eye because they cannot flow into the nasal cavity through normal drainage channels.
- Corneal Damage: Corneal injuries, ulcers, or scratches can trigger tear production.
- Foreign Object: Objects, dust or sand grains that come into contact with the eyes may cause irritation and watery eyes.
- Entropion: It is the inward folding of the eyelid. This can cause the bristles to rub against the surface of the eye and cause irritation.
- Allergic Reactions: Pollen, house dust or other allergens can cause watery eyes in cats.
- Viral or Bacterial Infections: Conjunctivitis and further eye problems may occur during the course of respiratory tract infections, which are especially common in newborn kittens and usually develop as a result of viral factors acquired from the mother during or after pregnancy.
- Tumors or Neoplasias: Tumors that develop in or around the eye can prevent tears from flowing properly.
- Breed: Especially short-faced or brachycephalic cat breeds have high eye sensitivity because they have genetically short noses and protruding eyes.
What are the symptoms of watery eyes in cats?
In cats, as a result of excessive tear production or poor drainage, discharge of different characteristics is observed on the side of the eyes close to the nose. Brown/reddish spots are observed in animals with light fur color.
- Eye Redness: Redness in the eyes can be a sign of inflammation or infection.
- Eyelid Swelling: Abnormal swelling of the eyelid may be a symptom of an injury, infection, or allergic reaction.
- Eye Inflammation or Mucus: It is possible for a yellow or green colored fluid to come out of the eye, especially in bacterial infections.
- Changes in the Eyelid: The eyelid curling inward or outward may be a sign of a significant deformation.
- Cloudiness on the Eye Surface: Dullness or cloudiness on the cornea may be a sign of infection.
- Frequently Blinking or Closing the Eyes: If the cat blinks frequently or keeps one eye constantly closed, it may be a sign of a possible illness.
- Constant Rubbing: A cat constantly rubbing its eye with its paw may be an indication of itching or discomfort.
How to Diagnose Watery Eyes in Cats?
Diagnosis of watery eyes in cats is made through clinical symptoms as well as some special tests and examinations performed by the veterinarian. Some of these are as follows:
- Physical examination
- Allergy test
- Fluorescent dye test to identify corneal traumas that are not easily seen
- Tonometry to evaluate intraocular pressure
- Laboratory analysis of eye cultures
- Cytology of eye cells
- Examination for viral diseases
- Evaluation of the position of the eyelids
- Evaluation of tear drainage pathways (nasolacrimal duct)
Treatment of Watery Eyes in Cats
Treatment of watery eyes in cats may vary depending on the underlying cause. Therefore, for correct treatment applications, the cause of the problem must first be determined. If the tear duct is blocked, a catheter may be placed inside the tear duct to open the duct and allow fluid to pass. Surgical repair of the eyelid may be necessary to treat abnormal eyelid formation such as entropion.
Other potential treatments include:
- Antibiotic Treatment for Infections: Topical antibiotic drops or ointments are usually prescribed for bacterial infections.
- Artificial Tears for Tear Insufficiency: In cases where tear production decreases, artificial tear drops or preparations in gel form can be used.
- Antihistamines in Allergic Reactions: If watering occurs as a result of an allergic reaction, antihistamine drops may be recommended.
- Corneal Injuries: If an injury or ulceration is detected in the cornea, antibacterial or antiviral drops and sometimes protective eye ointments can be used.
- Drugs to Lower Intraocular Pressure for Glaucoma: If high intraocular pressure is detected, drugs that reduce intraocular pressure may be prescribed.
- Foreign Objects: If a foreign object is detected in the eye, this object may need to be carefully removed.
- Use of Quality Cat Litter: Dusty and poor quality cat litter may cause watery eyes. Therefore, you can reduce this risk by using a dust-free and high-quality cat litter.
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