Epiphora in Cats: How to Spot and Treat Excessive Tearing

ℹ Understanding Epiphora

Epiphora isn’t a disease itself but rather a symptom indicating an underlying issue with the cat’s tear drainage system or excessive tear production. Tears are essential for lubricating and cleansing the eye surface, but when the drainage system is compromised, or tear production is overstimulated, tears overflow onto the face.

This overflow can lead to skin irritation and secondary infections around the eyes if left unaddressed. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing further complications and ensuring your cat’s well-being.

⚠️ Common Causes of Epiphora in Cats

Several factors can contribute to epiphora in cats. These include:

• Blocked Tear Ducts: This is one of the most frequent causes. The nasolacrimal duct, responsible for draining tears into the nasal cavity, can become blocked due to inflammation, debris, or congenital abnormalities.
• Eye Infections: Infections, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), can irritate the eyes and lead to increased tear production. Viral, bacterial, and fungal infections can all cause conjunctivitis.
• Allergies: Just like humans, cats can suffer from allergies that affect their eyes. Environmental allergens, such as pollen and dust mites, can trigger excessive tearing.
• Foreign Bodies: A foreign object, such as a speck of dust or an eyelash, can irritate the eye and cause tearing. These objects can scratch the cornea and cause significant discomfort.
• Glaucoma: This condition involves increased pressure inside the eye, which can lead to excessive tearing. Glaucoma requires prompt veterinary attention to prevent vision loss.
• Entropion: Entropion is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea. This constant irritation leads to tearing and can damage the cornea.
• Corneal Ulcers: Ulcers on the cornea, often caused by injury or infection, can be very painful and cause excessive tearing. These require immediate veterinary treatment.
• Breed Predisposition: Certain breeds, such as Persians and Himalayans, are predisposed to epiphora due to their facial structure. Their flattened faces can compress the tear ducts, leading to drainage issues.

👀 Recognizing the Symptoms

The most obvious symptom of epiphora is excessive tearing, resulting in wet fur around the eyes and face. Other signs to watch out for include:

• Wet or stained fur: Noticeable dampness or discoloration of the fur beneath the eyes. The fur may appear reddish-brown due to the porphyrins in tears.
• Redness and inflammation: The skin around the eyes may be red, swollen, and irritated due to constant moisture.
• Squinting or blinking: Your cat may squint or blink excessively, indicating discomfort or pain.
• Eye discharge: The discharge may be clear, but it can also be yellow or green if an infection is present.
• Rubbing or pawing at the eyes: Your cat may rub its face against furniture or paw at its eyes in an attempt to relieve irritation.
• Changes in behavior: Your cat may become withdrawn, irritable, or lose its appetite due to the discomfort associated with epiphora.

🩺 Diagnosis of Epiphora

A veterinarian will perform a thorough eye examination to determine the cause of the epiphora. This examination may include:

• Physical Examination: The vet will examine the cat’s eyes and surrounding areas for any signs of inflammation, discharge, or abnormalities.
• Fluorescein Stain Test: A harmless dye is applied to the eye to check for corneal ulcers or scratches. The dye will highlight any damage to the cornea.
• Schirmer Tear Test: This test measures tear production to determine if the cat is producing too many tears or not enough.
• Nasolacrimal Duct Flush: A sterile solution is flushed through the tear ducts to check for blockages. If the solution drains properly into the nose, the ducts are clear.
• Cytology: A sample of cells from the eye surface may be collected and examined under a microscope to identify any signs of infection or inflammation.
• Tonometry: This test measures the pressure inside the eye to check for glaucoma.

💊 Treatment Options for Epiphora in Cats

Treatment for epiphora depends on the underlying cause. Common treatment options include:

• Cleaning the Eyes: Gently cleaning the eyes with a warm, damp cloth can help remove discharge and prevent skin irritation. This should be done regularly, especially if the cat has excessive tearing.
• Antibiotics: If an infection is present, the vet may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment. The full course of medication should be completed, even if the symptoms improve.
• Anti-inflammatory Medications: These medications can help reduce inflammation and discomfort in the eyes. They may be prescribed in the form of eye drops or oral medications.
• Allergy Medications: If allergies are the cause, antihistamines or other allergy medications may be recommended. Identifying and avoiding the allergen is also important.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct blocked tear ducts, entropion, or other structural abnormalities. A veterinarian ophthalmologist can perform these procedures.
• Foreign Body Removal: If a foreign object is causing the tearing, the vet will carefully remove it. Pain medication may be prescribed to relieve discomfort.
• Glaucoma Management: Glaucoma requires ongoing management to control eye pressure and prevent vision loss. This may involve medications or surgery.

🛡️ Prevention Tips

While not all causes of epiphora are preventable, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk:

• Regular Eye Cleaning: Gently clean your cat’s eyes regularly to remove debris and prevent tear stains.
• Monitor for Allergies: Be aware of potential allergens in your cat’s environment and take steps to minimize exposure.
• Routine Veterinary Checkups: Regular checkups can help detect and address eye problems early.
• Proper Grooming: Keep the fur around your cat’s eyes trimmed to prevent irritation.

🏡 Home Care for Cats with Epiphora

In addition to veterinary treatment, there are several things you can do at home to help your cat manage epiphora:

• Keep the eye area clean and dry. Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe away any discharge or tears.
• Trim the fur around the eyes. This will help prevent irritation and keep the area clean.
• Provide a comfortable and stress-free environment. Stress can exacerbate eye problems.
• Follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully. Administer medications as prescribed and attend follow-up appointments.

📅 When to See a Vet

It’s important to seek veterinary attention if you notice any of the following signs:

• Sudden onset of excessive tearing
• Redness or swelling around the eyes
• Discharge that is yellow or green
• Squinting or rubbing at the eyes
• Changes in behavior
• Any signs of pain or discomfort

Prompt veterinary care can help prevent complications and ensure your cat receives the appropriate treatment.

🐱‍⚕️ Long-Term Outlook

The long-term outlook for cats with epiphora depends on the underlying cause. Many cats can be successfully treated with medication or surgery. Regular veterinary checkups and proper home care can help manage the condition and prevent recurrence. With appropriate care, most cats with epiphora can live happy and comfortable lives.

FAQ About Epiphora in Cats