If you’ve noticed your cat’s eyes streaming with tears that dry to form a brownish discharge, you may be wondering what’s causing this phenomenon. While a small amount of tearing is normal for cats, excessive tearing or the presence of a brownish discharge can indicate an underlying health issue. In this blog post, we’ll explore the potential causes of brownish discharge from a cat’s eyes and discuss when to seek veterinary care.
Causes of Brownish Discharge from a Cat’s Eyes
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Eye Infections: Eye infections, such as conjunctivitis, can cause excessive tearing and the production of a brownish discharge. Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the inner surface of the eyelid and the front of the eyeball. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergies.
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Blocked Tear Ducts: Cats have tear ducts that drain tears from the eye into the nose. If these ducts become blocked or inflamed, tears can overflow onto the fur around the eyes, drying to form a brownish discharge.
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Foreign Objects or Irritants: Dirt, dust, or other foreign objects can irritate a cat’s eyes, causing them to tear excessively and produce a brownish discharge.
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Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca): Dry eye 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, excessive tearing, and the formation of a brownish discharge.
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Upper Respiratory Infections: Infections of the upper respiratory system, such as feline herpesvirus or feline calicivirus, can cause excessive tearing and the production of a brownish discharge in the eyes.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
If you notice brownish discharge from your cat’s eyes, it’s essential to seek veterinary care promptly. Your veterinarian can perform a thorough examination of your cat’s eyes and recommend appropriate tests to determine the underlying cause of the discharge. Depending on the cause, your veterinarian may prescribe medication, recommend changes to your cat’s diet or environment, or suggest other treatments.
In some cases, brownish discharge from a cat’s eyes may be a sign of a more serious health issue, such as a corneal ulcer or glaucoma. These conditions can cause significant pain and vision loss if left untreated. Therefore, it’s important to address any changes in your cat’s eyes promptly to prevent further complications.
Conclusion
Brownish discharge from a cat’s eyes can be caused by various factors, including eye infections, blocked tear ducts, foreign objects, dry eye, and upper respiratory infections. If you notice this symptom in your cat, it’s essential to seek veterinary care promptly to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. By addressing any changes in your cat’s eyes early, you can help ensure their health and well-being.
