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While it's not unusual for cats to have a bit of moisture or discharge around their eyes, it can be concerning when you notice an excessive amount. Knowing which signs mean it's time for a visit to the veterinarian can help you manage your cat's health with less worry. Here are some helpful tips to guide you.

Types of Cat Eye Discharge

A foreign object in the eye can cause excessive wateriness and subsequent discharge to build up. An eye injury caused by a traumatic object, like a ball or a branch, could also cause discomfort and watering. A chronic case of discharge may be related to an allergy and is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as a runny nose or vomiting.

Conditions like pneumonitis and feline calicivirus, which affect the upper respiratory system, could also be to blame. In these cases, the discharge is usually thick and pus-like with a sticky texture. Serious eye disorders, including a corneal abrasion or pink eye, can also cause eye troubles.

When You Should See the Veterinarian

veterinarian

Discharge due to a foreign body or an allergy may clear up within about 24 hours. If your cat’s buildup persists, or if it appears to be green or yellow in tone, these are signs of an infection. Take note of your pet’s behavior, too, like if they’re rubbing their eyes a lot. In all instances, wait until your pet sees their veterinarian before you administer any type of medical treatment.

How to Maintain Clean Eyes

Check your cat's eyes regularly. At the first sign of buildup, clean them gently with a damp cotton ball. Use a new cotton ball for each eye to prevent spreading any possible infection. Avoid using over-the-counter products unless they’ve been recommended by your veterinarian, and never use any leftover eye medication you may have from a previous issue. Treating one eye concern with medication intended for another could worsen the condition.

 

If you're concerned about your cat's eye discharge, come to Mililani Town Center Pet Clinic. These kind and compassionate veterinarians on the island of Oahu offer extensive services ranging from comprehensive pet exams to vaccinations, and they work diligently to provide answers when you need them the most. Visit the website for more information about their services, or call (808) 625-6744 to schedule an appointment.

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