Causes of Cat Eye Discharge & Proper Treatment

Cats often have eye boogers, which is a perfectly normal occurrence. Just like humans, they naturally produce some eye discharge. However, if your cat has an excessive amount of eye boogers, along with symptoms such as red, swollen eyes, excessive tearing, frequent blinking, sensitivity to light, loss of appetite, and a runny nose, it's time to be concerned. Your cat may be suffering from an eye infection, which could include conjunctivitis, keratitis, and meibomian glanditis, among others.

What Causes a Cat to Have Eye Boogers?

1. Natural Physiological Process: Cats naturally secrete oils and tears to lubricate their conjunctiva and cornea, protecting their eyes and clearing out any foreign particles. When these oils, tears, and airborne dust mix, they form the eye boogers we often see.

2. Dietary Factors: Eating goat's milk, consuming dry food for extended periods, insufficient water intake, a dry living environment, or highsodium foods can lead to internal heat and fire, causing an increase in eye boogers.

3. Eye Infections: Bacterial or viral infections are common causes of eye inflammation, such as conjunctivitis, keratitis, and dacryocystitis. These conditions can lead to red, swollen eyes, increased discharge, and eye boogers that may be white, yellow, or greenish with an unpleasant odor.

4. Allergic Reactions: Allergies to certain substances like pollen, dust mites, grains, or meats can also trigger eye discomfort in cats, manifesting as excessive tearing, red eyes, and an increase in eye boogers.

5. Genetic Factors: Certain cat breeds, such as Persians, Exotics, British Shorthairs, and Silver Ragdolls, which have flat faces due to their facial structure, are more prone to tear stains and eye boogers.

6. Environmental Factors: Dust and dander in the home can irritate a cat's eyes, leading to an increase in eye boogers.

How to Deal with a Cat's Eye Boogers?

1. Regular Cleaning: Gently wipe around your cat's eyes with a cotton ball soaked in warm water to remove eye boogers. Remember to use a separate cotton ball for each eye to prevent crosscontamination.

2. Maintain a Clean Environment: Regularly clean your home to reduce dust and dander, minimizing eye irritation for your cat.

3. AtHome Remedies: If your cat has a lot of eye boogers but no other symptoms, it might be due to internal heat. After cleaning the eye boogers, you can apply a few drops of Shan Jing (Jinyinhua Eye Solution) to cool and protect the eyes, and alleviate dryness. If your cat shows signs of inflammation like conjunctival redness, eyelid swelling, and excessive tearing, consider using Bailangming (Neomycin Sulfate Eye Drops) three to five times a day, one to two drops per application.

4. Seek Professional Help: If your cat's eye boogers persist or worsen after five to seven days of home treatment, or if they exhibit additional symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, loss of appetite, or fever, it could indicate a contagious disease like feline rhinotracheitis or feline calicivirus. It's important to seek veterinary care promptly.

5. Dietary Adjustments: Feed your cat a balanced diet, avoiding allergenic foods and those high in fat, salt, and oil. Encourage them to drink plenty of water and consume more wet food.

In summary, a cat's eye boogers should not be overlooked. Pet owners must always be vigilant about their cat's eye health. With this guide, we hope you now have a clearer understanding of the causes and treatment methods for your cat's eye boogers. In the daily care of your cat, focus on prevention, providing a clean and hygienic living environment, and ensuring they maintain a healthy body.