As pet owners, it’s important to monitor our cat and dogs health closely, including their eye health. Eye discharge is common, but understanding the different types of discharge can help you determine when it’s a normal part of your pet’s health and when it may indicate an underlying issue. 

Let’s explore the common types of eye discharge in dogs and cats and when it’s necessary to seek professional care from a vet.

1. Goop or Crust

Many animals experience a small amount of goop or crust in the corners of their eyes, particularly noticeable upon waking up. This is often a result of normal tear production and drainage. A warm, damp cloth can easily wipe away the goop or crust. 

However, it’s best to visit a veterinary clinic if you notice a concerning amount of discharge or if it appears thick, yellow/green in colour, or accompanied by redness, swelling, or discomfort. Excessive or abnormal discharge may indicate an infection or underlying health condition that requires attention.

2. Watery Eyes

Watery eyes in dogs and cats can be caused by various factors, including irritants, allergies, blocked tear ducts, foreign material in the eye, an early symptom of upper respiratory infection or even corneal wounds. Mild cases of watery eyes, where your pet shows no signs of discomfort and the discharge is clear and watery, may not cause immediate concern. In such instances, you can monitor the situation for a few days to see if the issue resolves on its own. 

However, if the watery eyes persist, worsen, or are accompanied by redness, swelling, squinting, or other signs of discomfort, it’s recommended to make an appointment with a vet. They can thoroughly examine your cat or dogs eyes to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.

3. Red/Brown Tear Stains

Some breeds of dogs and cat develop reddish or brown tear stains near the inner corners of their eyes. This staining is usually caused by porphyrins, natural pigments found in tears. When tears accumulate and are not properly drained or wiped away, the porphyrins can cause fur discoloration. Tear staining is generally a cosmetic concern, not a cause for immediate alarm. 

However, if you notice a sudden increase in tear staining, changes in its appearance, or if your pet’s eyes become red, swollen, or painful, it’s advisable to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian. Excessive tear staining or accompanying symptoms could indicate an underlying eye condition or infection that requires attention.

4. White/Gray Mucus

Dry eyes, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca or “KCS,” can result in reduced tear production. In response, a pet’s body may produce more mucus to compensate for the lack of lubrication. While this mucus helps provide some moisture to the eyes, it cannot fully replace the functions of tears. 

As a result, animals with dry eyes may experience symptoms such as redness, irritation, excessive blinking, and abnormal corneal pigmentation. If you notice these signs along with white or gray mucus in your pet’s eyes, seeking prompt veterinary care from a vet is crucial. Left untreated, dry eyes can lead to discomfort, corneal ulcers, and even vision loss.

5. Yellow or Green Eye Discharge

The presence of yellow or green eye discharge in dogs and cats often indicates an eye infection. This type of discharge can be accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, swelling, itching, increased tear production, and squinting. Eye infections in animals can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. It’s important to have your pet evaluated by a veterinarian promptly if you observe yellow or green discharge. 

Eye infections can be a sign of a localized problem, such as conjunctivitis, or may indicate a systemic illness or an issue affecting the respiratory tract, nervous system, or other body parts. Your vet will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of the infection and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

When it comes to your pet’s eye health, being observant and proactive is crucial. While some types of eye discharge in animals may be normal and require no immediate action, others can be indicative of underlying health concerns that need attention. 

If you’re concerned about your cat or dogs eye discharge, Animal Clinic of East Durham is here to help. We can carefully evaluate your pet’s eyes, identify the cause of the discharge, and provide accurate information and appropriate treatment recommendations. Don’t hesitate to contact our veterinary clinic today to schedule an appointment and ensure your pet’s eye health and overall well-being.

Let Us Provide The Care Your Dog Needs For Healthy and Vibrant Eyes!