Increased Tear Flow (Epiphora) in cats
When to visit the vet?
Non-urgent see a veterinarian within 2–3 days
If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.
Unsure about what’s wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our Symptom Checker for more clarity
Definition of
Increased tear flow, also known as epiphora, is a condition in cats where there is an excessive production of tears or the tears do not drain properly. This can lead to visible tear stains under the cat’s eyes.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
- Blastomycosis (Fungal Infection Caused by Blastomyces Species)
- Blepharitis (Eyelid Inflammation)
- Brucellosis (Bacterial Infection with Brucella Species)
- Chlamydiosis (Bacterial Infection of the Upper Respiratory Tract with Chlamydia Species)
- Distichiasis, Ectopic Cilia (Eyelash Growth out of Line)
- Entropion (Inward Rolling Eyelid)
- Episcleritis (Inflammation of the Sclera, the Sklera of the Eye)
- Feline Calicivirus Infection, FCV (Cat Flu, Calicivirus Infection)
- Feline Eosinophilic Keratitis (Corneal Inflammation of the Eye)
- Feline Herpesvirus Infection, FHV (Cat Flu Caused by Herpesvirus Infection)
- Feline Neonatal Isoerythrolysis, FNI (Destruction of Red Blood Cells in Newborn Cats, Fading Kitten Syndrome)
- Feline H1N1 Influenza Infection (Cat Flu, Swine Influenza Virus Infection)
- Histoplasmosis (Fungal Infection with Histoplasma Species)
- Interstitial Pneumonia (Inflammation of the Pulmonary Connective Tissue)
- Iris Synechiae (Adhesions of the Iris of the Eye)
- Conjunctivitis
- Mycoplasmosis (Bacterial infection with Mycoplasma)
- Nasal chondrosarcoma (cancer of the nasal and paranasal sinuses originating from cartilage tissue)
- Nasal fibrosarcoma (cancer of the nasal and paranasal sinuses originating from soft tissue)
- Orthopox infection (skin infection caused by poxvirus)
- Squamous cell carcinoma of the nasopharynx (nasal and paranasal sinus cancer originating from skin and mucous membrane cells)
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Nasal Planum (Rhinarium Cancer, Nasal Pad Cancer)
- Uveitis (Inflammation of the Anterior Segments of the Eye)
- Nictitating Membrane Gland Prolapse, Cherry Eye
- Cornea Nigra, Black Corneal Necrosis (Dark Spots on the Eye, Corneal Sequestrum)
- Hypopyon (Pus in the Anterior Chamber of the Eye)
- Ectropion (Drooping Lower Eyelid)
- Ulcerative Keratitis, Corneal Ulcer
- Trichiasis (Inward Eyelash Growth towards the Eyeball)
Grundlagen und mögliche Ursachen
Tears are an important fluid that protects the eye and keeps the cornea moist. In cats, the tear film is continuously produced to flush out dirt and foreign objects and protect the eye from infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. However, increased production or impaired drainageDrainage refers to the removal of fluid from body cavities, Wounds, or inflamed areas, often using a tube or other device. It is used to prevent infection and promote healing. of tears can lead to epiphora.
One of the most common causes of epiphora is an anatomical anomalyAn anomaly is a deviation from what is considered normal or expected. In medicine, it often refers to unusual physical or genetic characteristics that may be present at birth or develop later.. Certain cat breeds, especially those with flat faces such as Persians or Exotic Shorthairs, have a predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. due to their head shape. This shape can narrow or block the tear ducts, hindering the drainageDrainage refers to the removal of fluid from body cavities, Wounds, or inflamed areas, often using a tube or other device. It is used to prevent infection and promote healing. of tears.
Infections are also a common cause of increased tear flow. Bacterial or viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. infections, such as felineFeline refers to anything related to cats. The term is used to describe diseases, behaviors, or anatomical aspects that are specific to cats. cold or herpes virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. infections, can cause irritation and inflammatory conditions of the eyes, leading to an excess of tear production.
Allergies, as in humans, can cause eye irritation in cats. Pollen, dust, or certain food ingredients can triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. allergic reactions that lead to increased tear flow.
Foreign objects such as dust, sand, or small particles can get into the eye and cause irritation. The eye responds with increased tear production to flush out the foreign object.
Glaucoma, a condition in which the pressure in the eye is increased, can also lead to epiphora. The increased pressure can impair the normal function of the tear ducts, leading to a backflow of tears.
Typische Begleitsymptome
- Tear stains: Dark or discolored streaks under the eyes caused by constant tearing.
- Redness of the eyes: The eyes may appear red, indicating irritation or inflammation.
- Swelling: Swelling around the eyes may occur, especially if there is an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. or an allergic reaction.
- Crusts: Dried tears can form crusts around the eyelids.
- Itching: The cat might scratch or rub its eyes frequently.
- Clouding of the cornea: In severe cases, the cornea may appear cloudy, which may indicate a serious inflammatory condition or infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..
- Behavioral changes: The cat may appear lethargic or withdrawn if it is in pain or discomfort.
Wann zum Tierarzt?
A visit to the vet is necessary if the symptoms occur suddenly or worsen. It is especially important to seek medical help if the cat shows signs of pain, such as constant blinking or increased rubbing of the eyes.
If an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is suspected, such as purulentPurulent refers to pus or the production of pus, which may indicate a bacterial infection. Purulent inflammatory conditions are often painful and may have significant swelling and redness. discharge or severe redness, a veterinarian should also be consulted. Untreated infections can lead to serious complications and endanger the cat’s eyesight.
If the cat shows other symptoms such as nasalNasal refers to the nose and nasal cavities. In veterinary medicine, this can involve examinations, treatments, or diseases affecting the nose of dogs and cats. discharge, sneezing, or cough, this may indicate a systemic infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. that requires comprehensive treatment.
Symptomerkennung für den Tierhalter und tierärztliches diagnostisches Vorgehen
It is important for the pet owner to recognize the symptoms early. Watch out for increased tear flow, changes in eye color or structure, and behavioral changes. Careful observation can help the veterinarian make an accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients..
The veterinarian will perform a thorough eye examination to determine the cause of the increased tear flow. This includes inspection of the eyelids, conjunctiva, and cornea. A tear-nose duct test can help check whether the tears are draining properly.
In some cases, a culture of the tear fluid discharge may be necessary to identify bacterial or viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. infections. Blood tests and allergyAn allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, the allergen. The reaction can include symptoms such as skin rash, itching, sneezing, respiratory distress, or in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. tests may also be ordered to rule out other systemic causes.
Was kann der Tierhalter tun und professionelle Therapieoptionen
As a first measure, the pet owner can gently clean the cat’s eyes with a soft, damp cloth to remove excess tear fluid and crusts. Use lukewarm, clean water for this and be careful not to irritate the eyes.
It is important to keep the cat’s environment clean and free of potential allergens. Dust, pollen, and other irritants should be minimized to prevent allergic reactions.
The pet owner should make sure that the cat does not rub its eyes too much, as this can lead to further irritation or infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. If necessary, a protective collar can be fitted to prevent this.
If a serious illness is suspected or the symptoms persist, the pet owner should not hesitate to seek professional help to ensure appropriate treatment.
Ausblick auf aktuelle Forschung
Current research on increased tear production in cats, also known as epiphora, focuses on various aspects, including the genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. and environmental factors that can influence this condition. A significant portion of the studies examines the anatomical features of certain cat breeds that can lead to narrowing or blockage of the tear ducts. Breeds with flat faces, such as Persian cats and Exotic Shorthair cats, are particularly affected, as the structure of the skull can hinder the proper function of the tear duct system.
Another area of research is dedicated to the role of allergies and environmental factors in the development of epiphora. The extent to which allergic reactions to pollen, dust, or certain feeds contribute to the overproduction of tears is being investigated. The importance of air quality and the living environment of cats is also being analyzed in order to identify possible correlations between environmental pollution and tear flow.
Microbiological research examines the bacterial colonization of the eye surface and its role in triggering inflammatory conditions that can lead to epiphora. New studies are exploring the composition of the tear film and its alteration by bacterial infections. Modern diagnostic techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) help to identify specific pathogens that can affect eye health.
Innovative therapeutic approaches are also being explored. This includes the development of eye drops with antimicrobialAn antimicrobial substance is an agent that serves to inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, or to kill them. Antimicrobials are frequently used to treat infections. peptides that specifically target harmful bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease. while protecting the natural flora of the eye surface. The use of laser therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. to treat anatomical anomalies of the tear ducts is also being investigated in order to minimize surgical intervention and shorten recovery time.
Long-term studies aim to decipher the genetic basis of epiphora in order to promote selective breeding programs that minimize the occurrence of this symptom in future generations. Researchers are working to identify specific genes responsible for the development of tear duct structure. This knowledge could make it possible to make more targeted breeding decisions and reduce the prevalence of epiphora in particularly susceptible breeds.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
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What is epiphora in cats? Epiphora is a condition in which a cat shows excessive tear production. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including anatomical anomalies or allergies.
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How do I know if my cat has epiphora? Common signs include wet spots under the eyes, discoloration of the fur, and occasional rubbing of the eyes with the paws.
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Which breeds are most commonly affected? Cats with flat faces, such as Persians and Exotic Shorthairs, are most commonly affected due to their skull structure.
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Can epiphora go away on its own? In some cases, epiphora may disappear on its own, especially if it is caused by temporary irritation or allergies. However, an assessment by a veterinarian is advisable.
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What treatment options are there? Treatment depends on the cause and can range from administering eye drops to surgical procedures to correct blockages in the tear duct system.
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Can epiphora affect my cat’s health? If left untreated, epiphora can lead to skin irritation and secondary infections. Early treatment can minimize these risks.
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How can I help my cat at home? You can gently clean your cat’s eyes with a damp cloth to remove excess tear fluid and reduce discoloration.
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Should I change my cat’s diet? In some cases, a change in diet can help, especially if allergies are suspected. A veterinarian can give specific recommendations.
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Can I use over-the-counter eye drops? The use of over-the-counter eye drops should only be done after consulting with a veterinarian, as some ingredients may be unsuitable for cats.
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What preventive measures are there? Regular eye exams, a clean environment, and a balanced diet can help minimize the risk of epiphora.