🔍 What Is Epiphora?

Epiphora refers to excessive tear overflow due to two main causes: increased tear production or impaired drainage through the nasolacrimal system :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. Tears normally flow across the eye’s surface and drain via the lacrimal puncta into the nasal cavity. Blockage or overflow leads to visible tearing and staining.

👁️ Signs to Watch For

• Visible tear overflow or wetness beneath eyes
• Reddish-brown tear stains—common in light-colored fur :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Red or inflamed eyelids and conjunctiva, squinting, or excessive blinking :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Discolored or cloudy eye, discharge, pawing at eye :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• Foul odor or skin irritation—signs of skin infection underneath tear stains :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

🧭 Common Causes

• Poor drainage / Duct blockage: Congenital defects or debris block tear ducts; brachycephalic breeds like Persians commonly affected :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
• Anatomical issues: Entropion, ectopic cilia, distichia irritate the cornea; surgery may be required :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
• Eye injury or ulcer: Corneal trauma causes reflex tearing—emergency if ulcers present :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
• Conjunctivitis & infection: Viral (herpesvirus), bacterial, or allergic—often with discharge :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
• Dry eye (KCS): Subtle tear film imbalance leads to reflex tearing :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
• Glaucoma or tumors: Pressure or masses can block ducts or cause irritation :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.
• Environmental irritants: Dust, smoke, pollen causing transient tearing :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.

🏥 When to Call the Vet Immediately

• Sudden corneal injury or ulcer—cat is squinting, blinking excessively :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.
• Green, yellow, or bloody discharge—indicates infection or severe inflammation :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.
• Pain, vision change, eye cloudiness, enlarged appearance :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}.
• Persistent or worsening tear overflow beyond a few days :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.

🔬 Veterinary Diagnostic Steps

1. Ophthalmic exam (with magnification) to inspect eyelids, cornea, and conjunctiva :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.
2. Schirmer tear test for tear production.
3. Fluorescein staining for corneal ulcer detection :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}.
4. Jones test/flush to assess nasolacrimal duct patency :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}.
5. Tonometry to evaluate eye pressure (glaucoma risk).
6. Swabs to identify viral/bacterial agents (e.g., herpesvirus) :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}.
7. Advanced imaging (CT, ultrasound) if blockage or mass suspected :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}.

💊 Treatment & Vet‑Led Care

• Cleaning: Daily gentle cleansing with damp cloth—avoid irritants :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}.
• Medications:
  • Topical antibiotic or antiviral drops for infections.
  • Anti-inflammatory drops for conjunctivitis or KCS.
  • Artificial tears if dry eye is diagnosed.
• Surgery: Correct entropion or remove abnormal lashes :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}.
• Tear-duct procedures: Duct flushing or stent placement.
• Treatment for underlying issue: Manage glaucoma, tumors, or systemic infection.
• Protective measures: E-collar to prevent pawing at the eye; regular monitoring.

🏠 Home Care & Monitoring

• Clean eyelid margins daily with damp soft cloth or foam pad.
• Use vet-approved wipes; avoid human products :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}.
• Keep eyes dry and fur trimmed to reduce irritation.
• Monitor for changes in tear volume, color, eye appearance, or behavior.
• Administer eye medications precisely as prescribed.
• Protect from environmental irritants—keep areas smoke- and dust-free.
• Track progress and share updates via the Ask A Vet app for remote support.

📋 Case Study: “Luna,” a Persian with Chronic Epiphora

Presentation: Persistent tear staining, no infection, normal exam.

Diagnosis: Nasolacrimal dysplasia (bilateral duct abnormality) typical of brachycephalic breeds.

Treatment: Regular duct flushing under sedation, daily cleaning, and medicated wipes.

Outcome: Significant reduction in staining and skin irritation; improved comfort.

🛡️ Prevention & Long-Term Care

• Trim hair around eyes for airflow.
• Maintain regular grooming to prevent debris or tear buildup.
• Ensure up-to-date vaccinations and parasite control.
• Minimise exposure to smoke, dust, strong chemicals.
• Regular check-ups with tear tests and eye exams for predisposed breeds.
• Use calming tools like Woopf pheromone diffusers to reduce stress-related blinking or rubbing.

🌟 Why Vet‑Led & Integrated Care Matters in 2025

At Ask A Vet, Woopf, and Purrz, we blend veterinary expertise with practical home tools:

• Ask A Vet app: Share eye photos, track tear overflow, receive triage and treatment guidance.
• Woopf ocular-care tools: Gentle wipes, grooming aids, calming sprays for comfort.
• Purrz supplements & diets: Nutrients supporting eye health and reducing skin irritation from tear staining.

This holistic model enables early detection, personalised treatment, and comfortable recovery to protect eye health and prevent complications. 🐾