👁️‍🗨️ Epiphora in Cats: Comprehensive Vet Guide – 2025

Greetings, cat-loving families! 😺 I’m Dr Duncan Houston BVSc, bringing you my most thorough 2025 guide on epiphora—watery eyes in cats. We'll unpack causes, red flags, diagnostic steps, treatments, home care, and how Ask A Vet can support you every step of the way. Let’s get those eyes bright and clear! 🧼✨

1️⃣ What Is Epiphora?

Epiphora refers to excessive tear overflow that can be due to increased tear production or blocked drainage. You’ll see wet fur, staining, or tearing near the nasal corner of the eye :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.

2️⃣ How Common Is It?

Epiphora is one of the most frequently seen eye-related concerns in feline veterinary visits :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. While often benign, persistent cases may signal deeper issues.

3️⃣ Why Tears Overflow — Common Causes

• Drainage obstruction: Blocked nasolacrimal ducts from congenital narrowing, inflammation, debris, or tumors :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
• Brachycephalic breeds: Flat faces in Persians, Himalayans cause poor drainage and tear pooling :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
• Eyelid abnormalities: Entropion or ectropion irritate the eye, triggering tears :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
• Abnormal lashes: Distichia or ectopic cilia rub the cornea, causing irritation and epiphora :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
• Corneal injuries: Ulcers, scratches from trauma or fights provoke tears as a protective response :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
• Conjunctivitis/infection: Viral (e.g., herpes), bacterial, or allergic conjunctivitis increase tear production :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
• Glaucoma or tumors: Eye pressure or growths may cause tearing :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
• Dry eye: Paradoxically leads to tears because the eye strives to compensate :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.

4️⃣ Recognizing Signs & Patterns

• Excessive tearing or wet fur beneath eyes
• Rust-colored staining—especially on light coats :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
• Redness, discharge (mucoid or purulent), swelling
• Squinting, blinking, pawing
• Cough, sneezing if nasal drainage is involved
• Cloudiness, vision changes—alarming signs

5️⃣ Diagnostic Steps by Your Vet

• Full ocular exam—the first step to spot structural issues
• Schirmer tear test (evaluates tear production) :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
• Fluorescein stain for corneal ulcers
• Nasolacrimal flush to test duct patency :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
• Tonometry for glaucoma detection
• Cytology/culture for infections or allergies :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
• Advanced imaging (rare cases: CT/MRI) for tumors or complex issues

6️⃣ Treatment Options

🔧 Mechanical & Surgical Solutions

• Tear‑duct flushing or probing to open obstructions
• Eyelid surgery for entropion/ectropion correction
• Removal of abnormal lashes (distichia/cilia)
• Surgical removal of tumors if present

💊 Medical & Topical Therapies

• Antibiotic or antiviral eye drops/ointments for infections
• Anti‑inflammatory meds for allergies or conjunctivitis
• Lubricating artificial tears for dry eye conditions
• NSAIDs when pain or corneal irritation present

🏥 Supportive Home Care

• Gentle wiping with warm, damp cotton pads
• Keep fur trimmed to prevent wicking tears
• Reduce allergens like smoke, dust, sprays
• Monitor for worsening signs like discharge change or pain

7️⃣ Prognosis & Follow‑Up

With correct treatment, most cats recover well—even brachycephalics with routine care. Chronic or anatomical cases may need ongoing management with simple hygienic care. Regular follow‑ups ensure lasting ocular health.

8️⃣ Preventive Measures & Tips

• Trim facial fur regularly around eyes
• Minimize allergen exposure indoors
• Promptly treat eye trauma or infections
• Schedule routine ocular checks, especially in short‑nosed breeds

9️⃣ When to Contact Ask A Vet 📲

Seek help if your cat shows:

• Sudden eye squinting, cloudiness, or discharge
• Visible corneal injury or excessive pawing
• Discolored, foul-smelling exudate
• No improvement after 24–48 hours of home care

Ask A Vet can guide you on next steps—whether it’s home treatment or immediate clinic care. Our vets are ready to provide expert advice anytime! ❤️🐾

🔟 Quick Reference Table 📊

💡 Dr Duncan’s Final Takeaway

While watery eyes are common, persistent or unusual ocular signs require veterinary evaluation. With proper diagnosis and care—including home hygiene—most cats regain comfort and vision. And remember: Ask A Vet is always here to guide you with professional insight and empathy. Together, we’ll keep your feline friend’s eyes bright and healthy! 😊🐾

Dr Duncan Houston BVSc — your trusted partner in feline health. Visit AskAVet.com and download the Ask A Vet app for round‑the‑clock expert care. 📱