My cat's eye is blinking, watery, and has discharge. What should I do?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

  Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

  Published on December 30th, 2017

  Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Eye discharge can be observed with conditions such as corneal ulcers, allergies or even dry eye. These conditions are usually approached and treated differently. For that reason, I recommend that you have Tabitha evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Your veterinarian would be able to start therapy based on findings. Best of luck and happy new year!

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on July 11th, 2018

  What a cute kitty! It is possible that she got something in her eye like a piece of dirt or debris that is acting as an irritant, which can cause blinking and increased tear production (just think about if you get something in your eye). A small cut or abrasion on the cornea is also possible as these are not always visible with the naked eye. You can try rinsing her eye well with a sterile eye wash (available at most pet stores). If the blinking and tears continues, I would recommend bringing her into the vet for an exam.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

  Veterinarian

  Published on March 16th, 2017

  Anything to make one eye less clear than the other is cause for concern. Blinking more in one eye or squinting the eye is a sign of ocular pain or discomfort. Corneal ulcerations or abrasions can cause these signs, as can viruses, glaucoma, inflammatory changes within the eye (referred to as anterior uveitis), among others. I would recommend getting your cat to the vet sooner rather than later, as eye injuries can worsen rapidly. Please do not wash her eye with water, as this can be irritating. A sterile saline based eye wash can be used to wash away excessive discharge until she can be taken to a vet for further evaluation. Also, purchase an Elizabethan collar or cone to prevent her from scratching or rubbing at the affected eye.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful