Cat Eye Watering and Squinting

The moist outer layer on your cat's eye works to wash away dirt and debris. That said, if your cat's eyes have started to tear or water excessively it could be an early sign that there is a problem. Today our Tucson vets explain some of the reasons why your cat's eyes might water.

Reasons For Cat Eye Watering

If your cat's eyes are watering it likely means that the eye is attempting to fight off some form of health threat such as a virus or a foreign body. In many cases, the cause is minor and will clear up without veterinary care. Nonetheless, there are a host of more serious reasons that your cat's eyes could be watering. To find the cause of your cat's eye issue it's necessary to look for other symptoms.

Signs of Eye Problems in Cats

Watery & Glassy Looking Eyes

Allergies are common in cats and can certainly lead your kitty's eyes to become irritated and watery. Common allergies that could affect your cat's eyes include pollen, mold and mildew dust, household cleaning products, perfumes, and some medications. Keeping your cat away from the allergen could help to clear up the issue. However, if you are unable to pinpoint what is causing your cat's watery eyes a trip to the vet is in order. Your vet will be able to rule out more serious causes for your cat's watery eyes and be able to recommend ways to help make your cat's eyes feel more comfortable.

Blinking, Squinting & Pawing at Eyes

If your cat has watery eyes and is blinking excessively, squinting or pawing at their eyes it's time for a trip to the vet. Your cat could have a foreign body trapped and irritating the eye, or a blocked nasolacrimal duct (tear duct). Although nasolacrimal obstructions aren't as common in cats as they are in dogs they can result in tears overflowing and running out of the eye. 

Red & Inflamed Eyes

If your kitty's has eyes that are red and inflamed there is a good chance that your feline friend has conjunctivitis (otherwise known as pinkeye). Other signs that your cat might have conjunctivitis include swollen eyes and increased sensitivity to light. This common eye condition in cats can be caused by anything from an infection or allergy to feline herpes virus, and while conjunctivitis can be easy to clear up, without treatment it could lead to more serious complications. For that reason, it is always best to see your vet if your cat's eyes have become red and watery. Depending on the severity of your cat's eye irritation treatment may include eye drops or ointment prescribed by your vet.

Yellow or Green Sticky Discharge

Goopy or sticky eye discharge is typically a sign of infection. A clear discharge often indicates a viral infection whereas green or yellow discharge suggests that your cat has a bacterial infection. When dealing with eye infections early diagnosis and treatment can help to avoid more serious complications down the road. If your cat has a bacterial eye infection treatment may include ophthalmic antibiotic drops, gels or ointments. In most cases, oral medications are unnecessary unless your cat's eye problem is as a result of a systemic infection.

Pain & Swelling

If your cat is displaying obvious signs of pain, the eyeball is bulging or there is notable swelling around your cat's eye it's time to get your cat to the vet to check for glaucoma. Symptoms of glaucoma in cats indicate that emergency veterinary care is required. This painful condition can appear suddenly and develop very rapidly. In most cases, by the time symptoms become evident much of the cat's eyesight will be irreparably lost. 

Sneezing & Runny Nose

Cold symptoms such as watery eyes, sneezing and a runny nose mean that your cat is likely suffering from a cat cold or feline upper respiratory infection. Many cat colds will clear up within a week without the need for veterinary care, however, if your cat's symptoms become worse or fail to improve within a couple of days make an appointment to see your vet. 

When To Take Your Cat to the Vet for an Eye Examination

If your cat's eyes continue to water for more than a day or two, or if your cat is showing signs of pain or symptoms of infection, it's time to head to the vet. Your veterinarian will be able to examine your kitty's eyes and recommend appropriate treatments to help relieve any discomfort your cat may be experiencing.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

If your cat's eyes are watering, or appear to be infected contact our Tucson vets today to book an eye examination for your kitty. If your cat's eyes need of urgent care head over to our Tucson emergency animal hospital straight away. 

Looking for a veterinary specialist in Tucson?

We're always accepting new patients, so contact our veterinary hospital today to book your pet's first appointment.

Contact Us