Some cats show watery eyes or a brownish coloring in the inner corner of the eye. This is called epiphora. This condition, often benign, can have various causes.

Epiphora corresponds to abnormal lacrimation. It may be due to excessive tear production or poor evacuation. If there is no abnormality, tears are produced by tear glands near the eye and are carried to the surface of the cornea through small ducts. Once deposited on the surface of the eye, they have a role of protecting and lubricating the cornea. Finally, they are eliminated by tear ducts which evacuate them into the nose. Thus, if the production of tears is increased or if their evacuation through the tear ducts is no longer possible, the tear film overflows and the tears flow. This lacrimation does not cause excessive discomfort but can color the hair at the inner corner of the eyes, with a brownish coloration. In addition, constant humidity in the periocular area can promote the proliferation of bacteria.

There are several reasons that can justify excessive tear production. They generally correspond to causes of irritation of the very sensitive cornea, which will then stimulate tear secretion. We often find entropions, that is to say congenital anomalies of malposition of the eyelid which come to curl inwards and rub against the eye. It is also possible to have poorly implanted eyelashes or hairs that constantly rub against the cornea. In both cases, if the discomfort is significant and even injures the eye with corneal ulcers, surgical management may be indicated.

Excess tear production can also be due to a condition of the eye itself. It is observed in cases of corneal ulcer, conjunctivitis or glaucoma, for example. Conjunctivitis is frequent in cats and can in particular be associated with coryza syndrome with also rhinitis, gingivitis, etc. For all of these conditions, it is possible to notice eye pain with a cat keeping its eye closed, at times or permanently. To treat the underlying conditions, specific treatments may be prescribed during a consultation with the veterinarian.

Birth defect or developmental defect

In some cats, the evacuation of tears through the tear ducts is not done properly. This may be due to a birth defect, with a defect in the development of the ducts, for example. An eye infection at a very young age can also lead to scarring of the eyelids (symblepharon) and interfere with tear removal.

Chronic inflammation

Finally, chronic inflammation, which lasts over time, can lead to the narrowing of the duct. This can occur as a result of conjunctivitis or dental abscesses, for example. The permeability of this channel can be tested by applying a dye to the surface of the eye (fluorescein). Within 10 minutes, the dye should be able to be seen at the corner of the nostril. Otherwise, it is possible to rinse the canal, under general anesthesia.

Epiphora is most commonly seen in short-nosed, Persian-type cat breeds. Breeds like Persians, Exotic Shorthairs or Himalayans are among the most affected breeds. Several factors probably play with in particular the eyes more exposed to external aggressions and pressed against the eyelids, because of the flat face, with a slight entropion frequently observed at the internal angle of the eye.

In the breeds mentioned above, few effective solutions are available. It is therefore advisable to regularly clean the internal corner of the eye if the cat does not do it on its own. This can be the case with Persians or older cats who naturally groom themselves less often. This helps limit maceration which can promote infections. To do this, just gently rub the corner of the eye, with a wet compress, as often as necessary. Eye cleansers or physiological saline can be used.

In conclusion, the epiphora is an often benign affection, related to an anomaly of birth or to the consequences of a chronic coryza syndrome, most often. However, if the cat shows other signs (red eye, closed eye, loss of appetite or difficulty in eating), it may be a sign of a more serious condition, requiring specific treatment. In this case, or if the tears become mucous (thick and whitish) or purulent, a consultation with the veterinarian (general practitioner or ophthalmologist) should be performed. In any case, do not hesitate to ask your veterinarian about any eye abnormalities observed in your cat.