As a cat owner, it can be concerning to notice that your feline friend’s tears are not clear but instead have a brownish hue when wiped away. This discoloration is a common occurrence in cats and can have several potential causes. In this blog post, we will delve into the reasons behind brownish tears in cats and discuss what steps you can take to address the issue.
Causes of Brownish Tears in Cats
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Porphyrin Stains: Porphyrin is a naturally occurring pigment found in tears, saliva, and mucus. In some cats, porphyrin stains can accumulate around the eyes, giving the appearance of brownish tears. This is particularly common in cats with light-colored fur around their eyes, as the stains can be more visible against the contrast.
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Eye Infections: Bacterial or viral infections of the eyes can cause inflammation and irritation, leading to increased tear production and the formation of brownish stains. Infections can also cause the eyes to discharge mucus or pus, which can contribute to the discoloration.
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Blocked Tear Ducts: Tears are drained from the eyes through small ducts called nasolacrimal ducts. If these ducts become blocked or inflamed, tears may not drain properly, leading to overflow and staining around the eyes.
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Allergies: Allergies to environmental factors such as pollen, dust mites, or certain foods can cause eye irritation and increased tear production. Chronic irritation can lead to the formation of brownish stains around the eyes.
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Dry Eye Syndrome: Dry eye syndrome, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), is a condition in which the eyes do not produce enough tears to keep the surface of the eye moist. This can lead to irritation, inflammation, and the formation of mucus or discharge, which can contribute to brownish stains.
Addressing Brownish Tears in Cats
If you notice brownish tears in your cat, it’s important to seek veterinary attention to determine the underlying cause. Depending on the diagnosis, your veterinarian may recommend the following steps:
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Cleaning the Eyes: Regularly cleaning your cat’s eyes with a vet-approved cleanser can help remove porphyrin stains and reduce irritation.
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Treating Infections: If an infection is present, your veterinarian will prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medications to clear the infection and reduce inflammation.
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Addressing Allergies: Identifying and removing allergens from your cat’s environment, or using allergy medications, can help reduce eye irritation and the formation of brownish stains.
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Treating Dry Eye Syndrome: If your cat has dry eye syndrome, your veterinarian may recommend artificial tear drops or other treatments to help keep the eyes moist and reduce irritation.
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Surgical Intervention: In some cases, such as blocked tear ducts, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore proper tear drainage.
Conclusion
Brownish tears in cats can be a sign of various underlying conditions, ranging from harmless porphyrin stains to more serious issues like infections or allergies. By understanding the potential causes and taking appropriate steps for diagnosis and treatment, you can help keep your cat’s eyes healthy and clear. Remember to consult your veterinarian if you notice any changes in your cat’s eyes or have concerns about their health.
