Why are tears running from my cat's eyes? - briefly
Tears in cats can indicate various issues such as allergies, eye infections, or blocked tear ducts. If you notice excessive tearing, it is crucial to consult with your veterinarian promptly for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Why are tears running from my cat's eyes? - in detail
Tears in cats can be caused by several factors, and understanding why they occur is essential for ensuring your feline companion's well-being.
Firstly, it is important to differentiate between normal tear production and excessive tearing. Cats, like humans, have a tear film that protects the eye from irritants and infection. The tears are produced by lacrimal glands located above the eye and drain into the nasolacrimal duct, which connects to the nose. This system helps maintain eye health and comfort.
One of the most common reasons for excessive tearing in cats is a blocked or irritated tear duct. The nasolacrimal duct can become obstructed due to various factors such as inflammation, infection, or foreign bodies like grass seeds or hairs. When the duct is blocked, tears cannot drain properly and accumulate, leading to noticeable tearing.
Another cause of excessive tearing in cats is conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin layer of tissue that lines the eyelids and covers the white part of the eye. Conjunctivitis can be caused by allergies, infections, or irritants such as dust, pollen, or chemicals. Inflamed conjunctiva produces more tears than usual, resulting in visible tearing.
Dry eye syndrome, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), is another condition that can cause excessive tearing in cats. Ironically, dry eye occurs when the lacrimal glands do not produce enough tears to maintain a healthy tear film. The eye becomes irritated and tries to compensate by producing more tears, leading to excessive tearing.
In some cases, excessive tearing in cats can be a sign of an underlying health issue. Conditions such as feline herpesvirus (FHV-1), which can cause chronic conjunctivitis, or dental disease, which can affect the tear ducts, may contribute to excessive tearing.
If you notice your cat's eyes tearing excessively, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian promptly. The vet will perform a thorough examination and may recommend diagnostic tests such as a Schirmer Tear Test to measure tear production or a fluorescein stain test to check for corneal ulcers.
Treatment options depend on the underlying cause of the tearing. For blocked tear ducts, manual expression of the duct by a veterinarian can help clear the obstruction. In cases of conjunctivitis, topical antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drops may be prescribed. If dry eye syndrome is diagnosed, artificial tears or immunosuppressive drugs like cyclosporine may be necessary to stimulate tear production.
In conclusion, while some tearing in cats is normal and helps maintain eye health, excessive tearing can indicate an underlying issue that requires veterinary attention. By understanding the causes of tearing and seeking prompt treatment when necessary, you can help ensure your cat's eyes remain healthy and comfortable.