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Why is my Persian cat's severe black eye crust causing irritation?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Male | neutered

My cat is a Persian and has black crust with irritated skin underneath forming from his eye to his upper lip. The vet said it's just eye drainage which is super common for Persians, but it's never been this bad. When he wipes at it or I whips it with a damp cloth, it takes his hair with it.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on May 16th, 2017

It may be normal drainage but at this point it has caused a skin infection which needs to be treated with antibiotics. there might also be an eye infection there, it's not possible to tell from the picture, but if this is the case Kimber will also need antibiotic eyedrops. bottom line- you need to take him back to the vet in order to get these treatments.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on October 27th, 2018
Although a picture of it would help to determine the underlying cause, that is likely to be due to a mild to moderate conjunctivitis, probably secondary to a trauma or infection. A check up would be needed as appropriate treatment would include antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops.
Corneal injuries must be ruled out as well.

Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on February 8th, 2019
Cats can get darkish colored crusts in the eyes. This can be normal. You should look for other signs of illness like redness to the sclera and conjunctiva of the eye, squinting the eyes, yellow or green discharge, rubbing the eyes, excessive watery tearing of the eyes or sneezing and nasal discharge. If you don’t see any other signs of illness, this is likely normal. If you see signs of illness or if you can’t tell, have your cat seen by the veterinarian. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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