Causes and Solutions for Cat's Tear Stains

Leakage marks, often referred to as "tear stains," on a cat's face are the result of excessive tear production and the subsequent pigment deposits left behind as these tears travel across the facial skin. While tear stains do not pose a direct threat to a cat's health, they can be a sign of underlying issues. If left untreated for an extended period, they may lead to eye and skin infections, further compromising the cat's overall wellbeing. But what causes these tear stains, and how can they be effectively removed? Don't worry, today we'll delve into this topic to provide you with the answers you need.

What Are the Causes of Cat Tear Stains?

1. Genetic Factors: Breeds with flat faces, such as Persians and Exotics, are more prone to tear stains due to their shorter noses and curved tear ducts, which make it difficult for tears to drain properly.

2. Eye Conditions: Conditions like conjunctivitis, corneal damage, and dacryocystitis can lead to an abnormal increase in tear secretions, contributing to the formation of tear stains.

3. Ear, Nose, and Throat Issues: Blockages in the nasolacrimal ducts or rhinitis can prevent tears from draining through the ducts, causing them to pool around the eyes.

4. Environmental Factors: Allergens like dust and pollen in the air can irritate a cat's eyes, causing them to produce more tears and exacerbate the tear stain issue.

5. Diet: A diet high in salt and fats can stimulate excessive tear production, leading to the development of tear stains.

6. Other Factors: Issues like ingrown eyelashes, long hair around the eyes, and eyelid inversion can also contribute to severe tear stains in cats.

How to Treat and Remove Cat Tear Stains?

1. Daily Care: Regularly trim the hair around your cat's eyes to minimize irritation and reduce tear production and staining.

2. Cleaning the Eyelids: Gently wipe your cat's eye corners with baby wipes or petspecific wipes twice a day to remove tear stains and secretions. For more stubborn stains, you can use a mixture of sterile saline and borax water (2:8) to gently wipe the area. Always dry the area with a tissue after cleaning to prevent moisture from breeding bacteria and causing skin issues.

3. Massaging the Nasolacrimal Ducts: Daily massage around the eye area and the nasolacrimal ducts can improve blood circulation, enhance vision, and prevent duct blockages.

4. Diet Adjustment: Feed your cat a balanced, easily digestible diet without excessive additives or seasonings. Encourage plenty of water intake to aid in metabolism and detoxification.

5. Treating Eye Infections: If you notice redness, yellow or mucoid discharge, or difficulty opening the eyes, use Beramycin (neomycin sulfate eye drops) as directed—three to five times a day, one to two drops per application. This treatment usually provides significant relief within one to three days.

In cases of severe tear stains that do not respond to home care, it's advisable to consult a veterinarian. They can check for nasal duct blockages and, if necessary, perform a duct flush. However, if there are congenital issues with the nasolacrimal ducts or inflammatory blockages, more complex treatments like duct intubation surgery or dacryocystorhinostomy may be required.