Understanding Why a Kitten's Eyes Water & How to Handle

Cats are highly sensitive creatures, but that doesn't mean they are overly emotional. So, when you notice your feline friend's eyes watering, don't jump to the conclusion that they're sad or upset. Instead, it's crucial to pay attention to whether they might be unwell.

Excessive tearing in cats, known medically as epiphora, can be caused by a variety of factors, including structural issues, eye infections, and other types of infections. Today, let's delve into the common reasons behind a cat's watery eyes and discuss how to handle this situation effectively, hoping to provide you with the knowledge to identify the cause and manage it appropriately.

What's Causing Your Cat's Watery Eyes?

1. Structural Factors: Cats typically drain tears through the nasolacrimal ducts. However, certain breeds, such as Persians and Himalayans, have flatter facial structures, which can lead to shorter or underdeveloped ducts. This can result in tears溢出眼眶. Additionally, ingrown eyelashes or long hair around the eyes can irritate the eyes, causing excessive tearing.

2. Eye Infections: Infections caused by bacteria or viruses are common culprits behind a cat's watery eyes. These often come with redness, swelling, and an increase in discharge. If you notice your cat frequently rubbing their eyes or see yellow or green discharge around them, it's wise to take them to the vet for a checkup.

3. Foreign Body Irritation: Dust, sand, bathwater, or other small particles can enter a cat's eyes, leading to tears. While this may not last long, larger or more stubborn foreign bodies can cause damage, necessitating prompt attention.

4. Dietary Issues: If your cat is not ill but frequently has watery eyes, it might be due to dietary factors, such as overly greasy or salty food, insufficient water intake, or dry weather.

How to Handle the Situation Properly

Watery eyes can lead to tear stains, and here are some effective ways to manage them:

1. Mix 20% physiological saline with 80% boric acid water, soak a cotton ball in the solution, and gently wipe the stained area.

2. Use Shan Jing (Jin Hua Jie Yan Ye) eye drops to remove internal secretions and foreign particles.

3. Wipe away any excess moisture around the eyes with a tissue to prevent bacterial growth.

4. Encourage your cat to drink more water, maintain a light diet, and avoid highfat and highsalt foods.

5. Check for ingrown eyelashes, and if present, trim them regularly or consult a vet for surgical treatment.

If your cat also exhibits symptoms like redness, increased discharge, runny nose, sneezing, fever, or loss of appetite, it may indicate an infection like feline rhinotracheitis or feline calicivirus. In such cases, immediate veterinary care is necessary.

In summary, while a cat's watery eyes may seem like a minor issue, they can be a sign of underlying health concerns. As a pet owner, it's essential to be observant, patient, and seek professional help when needed to ensure your beloved pet's health and happiness.