Red, Swollen Eyes & Tears: What's Wrong with My Kitten?

Understanding the Causes of Red, Swollen Eyes and Excessive Tears in Cats:

1. Foreign Object Irritation: When a cat's eyes come into contact with foreign particles, they can become irritated. If these particles remain in the eye without being removed, they can lead to persistent infections and introduce harmful bacteria. Over time, the eye issues can worsen as the presence of the foreign object persists. If you notice your cat's eyes are red and watery, it's important to first check for any foreign bodies. If they are present and difficult to remove, it's advisable to seek veterinary assistance for their safe extraction.

2. Viral Infections: Cats that contract respiratory viruses, such as feline herpesvirus, can experience symptoms that include eye issues. The virus can infect the upper respiratory tract, with the eyes being one of the areas affected. As the virus intensifies and combines with external bacterial infections, the eye problems can escalate, leading to increased discharge, crusty areas around the eyes, and in severe cases, redness and ulceration. In such instances, it's typically necessary to clean the eyes with saline solution and use antiviral and antibacterial eye drops.

3. Cat Heat (上火): Cats experiencing heat can also lead to an increase in eye discharge. Initially, the cat may only show an increase in分泌物, but if proper eye hygiene is not maintained and bacteria enter the eye, inflammation and redness can occur. Therefore, if you notice your cat has excessive eye discharge, ensure a mild diet and provide plenty of water. Also, maintain good eye hygiene to prevent the condition from worsening.

Expert Tip from Your Pet Doctor: For more insights into feline eye health, click on "What Causes Red Eyes in Cats?" to explore additional articles.