Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteEpiphora is the medical term for tears overflowing onto the face. It is a sign, not a diagnosis. A cat’s eye may water because it makes too many tears, because the tears cannot drain away through the tear ducts, or because the shape of the face keeps fluid from draining normally. The watering looks the same in each case, so appearance alone cannot tell you which cause is present. A cat whose tearing persists, or whose tearing comes with squinting, redness, or any sign of eye discomfort, needs a veterinary examination.
What epiphora means
The tear film normally keeps the surface of the eye lubricated. Excess fluid drains through the nasolacrimal ducts, which run from the inner corner of each eye toward the nasal passages. Epiphora develops when tear production rises above what the drainage system can handle, or when drainage is insufficient even though production is normal. VCA Animal Hospitals describes both mechanisms, and the difference between them is the starting point for any diagnosis.
Two mechanisms, two groups of causes
Because epiphora has two mechanisms, it helps to sort the possible causes into those two groups before looking at individual conditions.
| Feature | Excess tear production | Inadequate drainage |
|---|---|---|
| What happens | The eye makes more tears than normal in response to irritation or disease. | Tears are produced normally but do not reach or pass through the nasolacrimal ducts. |
| Causes named by VCA Animal Hospitals | Viral or bacterial conjunctivitis, allergies, eye injury or irritation, abnormal eyelashes, corneal ulcers, other eye infections, entropion or ectropion, glaucoma | Duct obstruction, debris or a foreign object, hair near the duct opening, facial anatomy |
| Additional causes named by Merck Veterinary Manual | Not stated | Congenital duct problems, or ducts affected by infection, foreign objects, or trauma |
| What a veterinarian checks | Signs of irritation or eye disease, including corneal health and intraocular pressure | Whether dye placed in the eye reaches the nose, and the condition of the ducts and surrounding tissues |
Causes that increase tear production
- Conjunctivitis (viral or bacterial inflammation of the membrane covering the eye) can cause tearing along with redness and discharge. The Cornell Feline Health Center covers this condition in detail.
- Allergies, eye injury, or irritation from any source.
- Abnormal eyelashes or eyelid positioning, such as entropion (eyelid turning inward) or ectropion (eyelid turning outward), which can rub the eye surface.
- Corneal ulcers and other eye infections, which irritate the surface of the eye.
- Glaucoma, a rise in pressure inside the eye that can threaten vision. Tearing can be one of its signs. The Cornell Feline Health Center’s glaucoma page explains why it needs prompt diagnosis.
Causes that block drainage
- Duct obstruction, where the nasolacrimal duct is narrowed or blocked.
- Debris, a foreign object, or hair near the duct opening.
- Congenital or acquired duct problems. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that these disorders may be present from birth or result from infection, foreign objects, or trauma.
Facial anatomy and breed predisposition
Some cats tear because of how their faces are built. Merck identifies Persian and Himalayan cats as more prone to chronic overflow associated with their facial structure or nasal duct obstruction. In these cats, some degree of tearing may continue even after the duct or facial problem is managed, which is why the treatment section below separates cure from ongoing management. Cats of other breeds can also have anatomy-related tearing, so breed alone does not establish a cause.
#1 Best Overall
- GENTLE CLEANING & EXCELLENT DESIGN: 120 pcs, 3-inch diameter. The wet wipes are made of high-quality non-woven fabric and are designed with exquisite pearl threads to increase friction, provide deep cleaning and are more comfortable. Designed specifically for pet eye cleaning, it safely and effectively removes sensitive and dry mucus secretions, secretions, and scabs.
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS & PLANT FORMULA: Made of natural ingredients, deionized water, organic refined coconut oil, honeysuckle extract, aloe vera essence, vitamin B5, vitamin C, sodium hyaluronate, safe and effective in cleaning eyes, diluting tear stains and removing odor , soothes and moisturizes the delicate skin around the eyes, repairs damaged skin barrier, enhances eye resistance, and reduces the occurrence of eye problems.
- REGULAR CLEANING & GROOMING ESSENTIALS: Eye care is an important part of regular pet grooming. Your pet's eyes need regular cleaning, and MEDUWEDU makes it easy with convenient cleaning wipes. Use our disposable wipes to help safely and gently clean your eyes, and long-term use can improve and prevent tear stains and reduce the risk of eye irritation.
- EASILY DEODORIZE & SOOTHE DISCOMFORT: Fruity scent reduces odors and leaves a pleasant scent, bringing you closer to your pet friends.
- FOCUS ON PET EYE CARE: Our products are not only safe in ingredients, but also have larger sizes and more cotton. There are also a variety of refreshing fruit flavors (mint, coconut, peach, grapefruit) for you to choose from. We believe your pet will love the eye cleaning. Although the price is affordable, the quality is high. Please rest assured that if you are not satisfied with the product you purchased, please feel free to contact us and we will provide you with the best solution.
Warning signs and when to call a veterinarian
Wet fur below the eyes, reddish-brown staining on the fur, tears running down the face, and a bad odor or skin irritation can all accompany epiphora. These signs alone can reflect a long-standing anatomical issue, but they do not show which cause is present. VCA and PetMD both describe these visible effects.
Contact a veterinarian promptly if you notice any of the following:
Rank #2
- VET-DEVELOPED EYE WIPES: Formulated in consultation with a US-licensed veterinarian to help remove dirt, discharge, and debris while being gentle enough for the delicate eye area during routine cleaning and maintenance
- 4X LARGER THAN STANDARD EYE WIPES: Our 5" x 5" extra-large wipes provide more surface area than standard 2.5" x 2.5" wipes, allowing for more thorough coverage and mess-free cleaning in fewer passes, making ear care easier and more efficient
- 98% NATURAL ORIGIN INGREDIENTS: Crafted with minimally processed ingredients from natural sources, our gentle formula is designed for everyday cleaning around your dog's eye area. Simple care, thoughtfully made
- HYPOALLERGENIC & CRUELTY-FREE FORMULA Our alcohol-free, paraben-free formula is designed with sensitive pets in mind, made with FSC-certified viscose fibers, 100% USDA biobased material, and Leaping Bunny Certified
- CHAMOMILE-INFUSED FOR COMFORT: Formulated with chamomile extract for gentle cleaning around the eye area, helping to remove discharge and address odor for a fresh, comfortable clean
- Squinting, or keeping the eye partly closed
- Frequent blinking
- Redness or swelling of the eye or the membrane around it
- Cloudiness, or a change in the color of the eye
- Thick or colored discharge
- Pawing or rubbing at the eye
- Sneezing or nasal discharge alongside the tearing
- Tearing that is persistent or excessive
Cornell advises veterinary evaluation when eye discomfort and discharge are visible, so that more serious disorders are ruled out. If the eye looks painful or abnormal, do not wait for the signs to settle on their own. Glaucoma, in particular, requires a veterinary diagnosis.
How a veterinarian investigates tearing
The veterinarian begins by examining the eye to find the underlying cause of the excess tearing. Depending on the findings, the exam may include:
Rank #3
- CAT EYE WIPES: Apply Eye Envy Tear Stain Remover Wipes for Cats around the eyes to clean away goop, eye boogers, buildup, crusty debris, and to remove tear stains from the fur. Each wipe is presoaked with Eye Envy’s tried and trusted Tear Stain Remover Solution. The stain-fighting formula cleans the affected area and uses natural ingredients to clean unsightly, smelly tear stains. Remove tear stains in few days with daily use. For stain free eyes, use weekly once the original tear stains are removed. Ideal for Persians, Himalayans, Exotic Shorthairs, and other breeds that suffer from tear stains.
- TEXTURED TO REMOVE DEBRIS: Waffle-like texture adds gentle friction to help clean the area, collecting gunk and removing crusty debris. It will also allow the formula to penetrate deeper into the hair shaft and does not leave any lint particles that may irritate the eye.
- SAFE AND NATURAL INGREDIENTS: Eye Envy Tear Stain Remover Wipes are made from non-irritating, natural ingredients that are not toxic to cats. Free from dyes, parabens, peroxide, steroids, and antibiotics. Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. Safe for kittens.
- LONG-TERM TEAR STAIN REMOVAL: Use alone or, for best results, use with Eye Envy Tear Remover Stain Powder to keep the area around the eyes dry. For heavy staining and extreme buildup of debris and gunk, use Eye Envy Tear Stain Facial Cleanser once a week.
- MADE IN USA: Eye Envy products are made at our facility in Nevada, and have been produced for over 20 years. Always cruelty-free and safe for pets of all ages. Proven effective by breeders, professional groomers, and cat fanciers worldwide.
- Schirmer tear test, which measures how much tear film the eye produces.
- Fluorescein stain, a dye used to check for corneal ulcers and to observe tear drainage.
- Intraocular pressure measurement, which screens for glaucoma.
- Examination of the tear ducts and surrounding tissues.
- Infectious disease testing, in some cases.
When the veterinarian places fluorescein dye in the eye, they look to see whether it reaches the nose. If the dye does not appear there, that does not prove a duct is blocked. It means further investigation may be needed.
Treatment depends on the cause
Treatment follows the cause the examination identifies. The table below compares the main directions.
Rank #4
- Ideal for Everyday Use: Pre-soaked with Miracle Care Eye Wash, these sterile cleaning wipes are soothing and gentle with a non-stinging formula to remove dirt and debris from your pet's eyes
- Convenient, Single Use Pet Wipes: Soft cotton pads are specially made for cleaning the area in and around your dog's and cat's eyes
- Quick & Easy to Use On The Go: Disposable, presoaked eye wipes get the job done quickly; Remove the eye wash pad from the container and squeeze the excess liquid into the eye; Use the pad to remove debris as needed up to 4 times daily
- From Nose to Toes We've Got Your Pet Covered: Our goal is to improve the human-animal bond by offering a complete line of innovative, solutions-driven products and accessories for animals, both small and large
- Trusted by Professionals: Miracle Care health and grooming products have been trusted and recommended by veterinarians and professional groomers for more than 40 years; Proudly Made in the USA in our Dayton, OH facility
| Cause identified | Treatment direction | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Eye condition that irritates the eye (for example, conjunctivitis, injury, corneal ulcer, eyelid or eyelash problem) | Cause-specific medical treatment or surgery, directed by a veterinarian | Tearing should be addressed as the underlying eye problem resolves. Treatment details depend on the diagnosis. |
| Blocked or incompletely formed nasolacrimal duct | Flushing of the duct, usually under anesthesia. A veterinary ophthalmologist may be involved. A duct opening that did not form normally may be opened surgically during the procedure. | Restores drainage when the blockage is the cause. Repeat or ongoing care is not stated in the source. |
| Facial conformation that prevents proper drainage | Ongoing facial cleaning rather than a cure | Some degree of tearing may continue after treatment. |
| Glaucoma | Veterinary diagnosis and treatment | Specific treatment depends on the veterinarian’s assessment. |
| Infection | Antibiotics when indicated, prescribed and directed by a veterinarian (for example, for a secondary skin infection) | Antibiotics are not for cosmetic staining. |
Home care and what to avoid
Gently cleaning the fur beneath the eyes with eye-safe cat wipes can help keep the area hygienic in cats whose tearing comes from facial conformation. This is a cleaning step only. It does not address an injury, infection, ulcer, glaucoma, or drainage obstruction.
Several common practices can cause harm or delay diagnosis:
Recommended Free Tools
Best Value
- Removes Eye Discharge & Gunk – Gently cleans dirt, crust, boogers, and debris from around your pets' eyes and face.
- Reduces Tear Stains – Helps remove and prevent tear stains with regular use.
- Gentle & Safe for Sensitive Eyes – Hypoallergenic and non-irritating formula, suitable for even the most sensitive pets.
- Vet-Formulated with Trusted Ingredients – Made with vet-approved ingredients to safely cleanse and refresh your dog’s and cat's eyes and face.
- Safe for Daily Use – Suitable for all breeds, including Shih Tzus, Poodles, Maltipoos, and white-furred dogs and cats. Gentle for puppies, kittens, and seniors. Helps keep eyes bright, clear, and healthy.
- Unprescribed eye drops or medications, including human products, which can worsen an eye problem.
- Household remedies applied to the eye or face.
- Stain-removal products whose claims are not backed by evidence. VCA notes that no recommended staining remedy has been proven fully effective.
- Low-dose antibiotics for cosmetic staining. VCA cautions against this practice because of the risk of bacterial resistance.
Antibiotics belong in care directed by a veterinarian when they are actually indicated.
Questions to bring to the appointment
Before the visit, note when the tearing started, whether it is in one eye or both, whether it changes during the day or with the seasons, and whether the cat has been pawing, sneezing, or squinting. Photographs of the eye taken in good light are also useful. These details help the veterinarian separate excess production from drainage problems more quickly.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
