About Feline Epiphora (Excessive Tear Production)

Feline epiphora, or excessive tearing, is a common problem affecting cats of all breeds and ages. While a small amount of tear production is normal and essential for eye lubrication and protection, excessive tearing often indicates an underlying issue requiring veterinary attention. Understanding the causes and symptoms of epiphora is crucial for providing appropriate care and preventing potential complications.

The Mechanics of Tear Production and Drainage

Most cats constantly produce tears. With each blink, tears are swept across the eye’s surface from the outer corner towards the nose. Tiny openings, known as puncta, located near the inner corner of both the upper and lower eyelids, collect tears. These tears then drain into a sac below the eye called the lacrimal sac, and from there, via the nasolacrimal duct, into the nasal cavity. This system efficiently removes tears and keeps the nose and nostrils moist. While tears are normally colorless, dried tears can appear reddish-brown, or even black, due to the presence of porphyrins and other pigments. Chronic epiphora leads to staining of the fur around the eyes, resulting in a characteristic brownish-red or rusty discoloration. The constant moisture also irritates the facial skin, potentially exacerbating the problem if bacteria accumulate.

Causes of Feline Epiphora

Epiphora stems from either a blockage in the tear drainage system or excessive tear production, often due to irritation or inflammation.

Obstruction of Tear Drainage:

Several factors can obstruct tear drainage:

Partially Closed Puncta: This leads to inefficient tear drainage, potentially causing increased bending of the nasolacrimal duct or drawing tears onto the hairs near the eyelids. This is particularly common in brachycephalic (flat-faced) and long-haired breeds, such as Persians and Himalayans.

Abnormally Small Tear Duct Openings: Congenital or acquired narrowing of the tear duct openings significantly impairs drainage.

Inflammation of the Lacrimal System: Infection or inflammation near or within the lacrimal glands can disrupt drainage.

Scarring of the Lacrimal Duct: Severe conjunctivitis can result in scarring that constricts the tear duct.

Foreign Bodies in the Tear Duct: While uncommon in cats, foreign bodies lodged in the tear duct can block drainage.

Excessive Tear Production (due to irritation or inflammation):

Irritation or overstimulation of the tear glands can significantly increase tear production. Common irritants include:

Eyelid Malformations: Abnormal eyelid structure or positioning can cause hair to rub against the eye (trichiasis), or eyelashes to grow inwards (distichiasis).

Blepharitis (Eyelid Inflammation): Inflammation of the eyelids often leads to increased tearing.

Conjunctivitis (Conjunctiva Inflammation): Inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the eyelid and eyeball, is a frequent cause.

Keratitis (Cornea Inflammation): Inflammation of the cornea (the transparent outer layer of the eye) can lead to excessive tearing.

Corneal Ulcers, Scratches, and Wounds: Injuries to the cornea trigger increased tear production.

Foreign Bodies or Irritants: Contact with foreign bodies or irritants (e.g., smoke, chemicals, soaps) on the eye surface stimulates tear production.

Glaucoma: This condition involving increased intraocular pressure often causes increased tearing.

Anterior Uveitis: Inflammation of the iris and ciliary body is another potential cause.

Eye Drops: Some eye medications can inadvertently stimulate tear production.

Surgical Sutures: Sutures placed after recent eye surgery may irritate the tear glands.

Infections or Inflammation around the Eye: Infections or inflammation around the eye, including the eye socket (orbit), can trigger excessive tearing.

Stimulation During Eating: In rare instances, the act of eating itself may stimulate tear production.

Symptoms of Feline Epiphora:

Recognizing the signs of epiphora is crucial for prompt veterinary attention. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and include:

Watery Discharge from the Eyes: Excessive tear production is the primary symptom.

Tear Staining: Staining below the eyes and near the nose is a hallmark sign.

Dried Discharge on the Eyelids: Dried tear discharge accumulates along the eyelids.

Ulcers and Irritation of the Skin: Chronic irritation from tears can cause skin ulcers and inflammation.

Eye Rubbing or Face-Wiping: Cats may frequently rub or wipe their eyes and face.

Reddened Conjunctiva: The conjunctiva may appear red and inflamed.

Changes in Eye Color: Alterations in the color of the eye’s surface or internal structures.

Excessive Squinting or Blinking: The cat may squint or blink more frequently than normal.

Eyelid Swelling: Swelling of the eyelids may occur.

Impaired or Lost Vision: In severe cases, vision may be affected.

Changes in Pupil Size or Eye Position: Abnormal pupil dilation or eye position can indicate a serious underlying condition.

Conclusion

Feline epiphora is a multifaceted issue with a variety of potential underlying causes. While mild, occasional tearing may be normal, persistent or excessive tearing requires a veterinary examination to identify and treat the underlying cause, preventing further discomfort and potential complications for your feline companion. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can ensure the health and well-being of your cat’s eyes.