Why Does My Cat Have Watery Eyes? [Causes & Remedy]

As cat owners, we often marvel at the beauty and independence of our feline companions. However, when it comes to their health, subtle signs can sometimes be overlooked, particularly when it comes to something as seemingly trivial as watery eyes. But watery eyes in cats, also known as epiphora, can be an indication of an underlying issue, ranging from minor irritants to serious medical conditions. Understanding why your cat’s eyes may be watering is essential in ensuring they stay healthy and comfortable.

Whether your cat’s eyes are constantly wet or are watering intermittently, it’s important to recognize the signs and determine if they point to something that needs attention. In this article, we’ll explore the common causes behind watery eyes in cats, when it’s time to seek help from a vet, and how you can respond to ensure your furry friend’s well-being. Let’s dive into this often-overlooked issue and learn how to care for our cats when their eyes start to weep.

Why Does My Cat Have Watery Eyes?

When your cat’s eyes water, it might seem like a minor inconvenience at first, but it could point to a deeper issue that requires attention. Tears in cats serve the same basic purpose they do in humans: to lubricate and protect the eyes, helping to wash away debris, prevent infection, and keep the eyes healthy. However, excessive tearing, also called epiphora, happens when the tear production becomes too much for the eye to handle or when the drainage system that removes the tears becomes blocked or impaired.

To understand why this happens, it’s important to first explore how a cat’s eye works. Tears are produced in the lacrimal glands, and they drain through tiny tear ducts that lead into the nasal cavity. If this drainage system is disrupted or if there’s an excess of tears produced due to an irritant or infection, tears can overflow, leading to watery eyes. But what exactly causes this to happen?

Common Reasons

There are several common reasons why your cat might experience watery eyes, ranging from temporary irritants to chronic health conditions. These causes include:

1. Allergies: Cats can suffer from seasonal or environmental allergies that affect their eyes. Allergens like pollen, dust, mold, or even certain foods can cause a cat’s eyes to water. In addition to watery eyes, you may notice other symptoms like sneezing, itching, or skin rashes.

2. Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs): Just like humans, cats can get colds or viral infections that lead to watery eyes. URIs are caused by various viruses, including feline herpesvirus and calicivirus, and can result in symptoms like watery discharge, congestion, and lethargy.

3. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the thin membrane that covers the eye. It can cause redness, swelling, and watery discharge. This condition can result from infection (bacterial or viral), allergies, or irritants like dust and smoke. Conjunctivitis is highly contagious among cats, so if you have multiple cats, it’s essential to isolate the affected cat to prevent spread.

4. Blocked Tear Ducts: Cats have small tear ducts that drain tears into their nose. If these ducts become blocked by debris, infections, or anatomical issues, it can result in tears overflowing and causing watery eyes.

5. Foreign Bodies or Irritants: Sometimes, the simplest causes are the most overlooked. A speck of dust, a tiny hair, or even a piece of litter can get lodged in your cat’s eye, leading to irritation and excessive tearing. Environmental factors like smoke or chemicals in cleaning products can also irritate the eyes.

6. Eye Injuries or Trauma: Any injury to the eye, whether from a scratch, a blunt force impact, or even an insect sting, can result in watery eyes as the body attempts to protect and heal the damaged area.

7. Corneal Ulcers: Corneal ulcers are painful sores on the surface of the eye, often caused by trauma or infection. They can lead to excessive tearing, redness, and squinting. This condition often requires immediate veterinary care.

8. Glaucoma: This is a serious eye condition that results from increased pressure within the eye, leading to swelling, discomfort, and watery discharge. While less common, glaucoma is an emergency that requires prompt treatment to prevent permanent damage to the eye.

When To Be Concerned

While occasional watery eyes are generally harmless, there are certain signs that warrant concern. If your cat’s watery eyes persist or are accompanied by other troubling symptoms, it’s time to take a closer look. Here are some key indicators that you should be worried about:

• Discharge Changes: If the watery discharge becomes thick, yellow, green, or bloody, it may indicate an infection or injury. Clear discharge might simply suggest a mild irritation, but discolored or sticky discharge suggests a more serious problem.

• Squinting or Pawing at the Eyes: If your cat is squinting, keeping its eyes closed, or constantly pawing at its face, it could be in pain or discomfort, signaling an underlying issue such as conjunctivitis, injury, or a foreign body.

• Swelling Around the Eyes: Swelling around the eyes, or the appearance of bulging eyes, may indicate an infection, an abscess, or a more serious condition like glaucoma or an eye tumor.

• Behavioral Changes: If your cat is lethargic, off its food, or exhibiting other signs of illness such as fever, coughing, or sneezing, these symptoms in conjunction with watery eyes may point to a more serious health problem.

• Persistent Watery Eyes: If your cat’s eyes continue to water for more than a couple of days without improvement, it’s best to consult a vet for further evaluation.

How To Respond As A Cat Owner

As a responsible cat owner, it’s important to monitor the situation closely and take action if necessary. Here’s how to respond if you notice your cat’s eyes watering:

1. Keep the Area Clean: Gently wipe away excess discharge with a clean, damp cloth. Be sure to use a soft, non-abrasive material and avoid using harsh chemicals or human eye products.

2. Remove Any Foreign Bodies: If your cat is pawing at its eyes or squinting, check carefully for any foreign bodies like dust, dirt, or debris. If you find something, try to remove it gently using a damp cotton ball or washcloth.

3. Keep Your Cat Comfortable: If environmental factors like dust or smoke are contributing to the watery eyes, try to minimize your cat’s exposure to these irritants. If allergies seem to be the cause, keep the environment clean and use air purifiers to remove allergens.

4. Observe Other Symptoms: Monitor your cat for any additional signs, such as changes in appetite, behavior, or posture. Keeping track of these will help you when discussing the issue with your veterinarian.

5. Try a Hypoallergenic Diet: If allergies are suspected, consider switching to a hypoallergenic diet or eliminating possible allergens from your cat’s food and environment.

When To Consult A Veterinarian

If your cat’s watery eyes persist or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms, a veterinarian’s expertise is crucial. Here are specific instances where you should consult a vet:

• If the condition doesn’t improve after a few days or worsens.
• If there is thick, colored, or bloody discharge.
• If your cat is experiencing pain, squinting, or has reduced vision.
• If there’s swelling around the eye or a visible injury.
• If your cat is also showing signs of a respiratory infection or other systemic illness.

A vet will conduct a thorough examination, which may include eye tests, bacterial cultures, or blood work to determine the underlying cause. Prompt treatment can prevent the issue from worsening and causing further complications.

Conclusion

While watery eyes in cats can be a common and sometimes harmless issue, it’s essential to be vigilant and understand when it signals something more serious. As pet owners, keeping an eye out for changes in your cat’s behavior and appearance will help you respond quickly to potential health problems. Whether it’s a mild irritation or a more significant condition, knowing when and how to act can make a world of difference in your cat’s comfort and overall health.

By keeping your cat’s environment clean, monitoring their symptoms, and seeking professional care when necessary, you’ll ensure that their eyes—and their overall health—are properly cared for. After all, a healthy cat is a happy cat.

FAQs

What Are The Common Causes Of Watery Eyes In Cats?

Watery eyes in cats can be caused by several factors, including allergies, conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eye lining), upper respiratory infections, blocked tear ducts, or foreign objects irritating the eyes. It could also indicate a more serious issue like corneal ulcers or feline herpesvirus.

Is Watery Eye Discharge In Cats A Sign Of Infection?

Yes, watery eye discharge can sometimes indicate an infection, especially if accompanied by redness, swelling, or pus-like discharge. Upper respiratory infections, which are common in cats, can cause symptoms like watery eyes, sneezing, and nasal discharge.

Could My Cat’s Watery Eyes Be Due To Allergies?

Allergies are a common cause of watery eyes in cats. Environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites, or mold can cause eye irritation and excessive tearing. Cats with food allergies or sensitivities may also develop watery eyes as a symptom.

How Can I Tell If My Cat’s Watery Eyes Are From A Blocked Tear Duct?

If your cat has watery eyes with a persistent tear stain or discharge, especially in one eye, it could be due to a blocked tear duct. This condition prevents tears from draining properly, leading to excessive tearing. A veterinarian can confirm the diagnosis through a physical exam or diagnostic imaging.

Should I Be Concerned If My Cat’s Watery Eyes Are Clear Or Watery?

Clear or watery discharge from the eyes is typically less concerning than thick or colored discharge. However, if the watery eyes persist or are accompanied by other symptoms like squinting, swelling, or redness, it may indicate an underlying issue that should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Can A Viral Infection Cause My Cat’s Eyes To Water?

Yes, viral infections, particularly feline herpesvirus (FHV-1), are a common cause of watery eyes in cats. FHV-1 can lead to conjunctivitis and eye discharge. Cats with weakened immune systems or stress are more prone to developing viral infections affecting the eyes.

What Are The Signs That My Cat’s Watery Eyes Are Serious And Need Immediate Attention?

Signs that your cat’s watery eyes require urgent attention include the presence of thick, yellow, or green discharge, severe redness, squinting, squinting, changes in eye color, cloudiness, or your cat acting excessively sensitive to light. If your cat seems in pain, you should seek veterinary care right away.

How Can I Treat My Cat’s Watery Eyes At Home?

For mild cases of watery eyes, you can gently wipe your cat’s eyes with a soft, damp cloth to remove discharge. Keep their environment clean and free of allergens. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s best to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment, which may include eye drops or antibiotics.

Can A Foreign Object In My Cat’s Eye Cause Watery Discharge?

Yes, a foreign object, such as a piece of dust, hair, or a small debris, can irritate your cat’s eye and cause watery discharge. If your cat is pawing at their eye, squinting, or has excessive tearing, it may indicate something in the eye. A veterinarian can safely remove the object if necessary.

What Can I Do To Prevent Watery Eyes In My Cat?

To prevent watery eyes in your cat, keep their environment free from dust, mold, and allergens, and ensure their vaccinations are up to date to prevent viral infections. Regularly clean their living space, and provide a balanced diet to maintain overall health. If your cat has a tendency to develop eye issues, regular vet check-ups can help catch potential problems early.