What does brown discharge in your cat’s eye mean?
Cat eye discharge is a common worry for cat owners. It’s important to remember that it’s usually a symptom of something else going on, not a diagnosis on its own.
This article will cover the possible causes of brown discharge from your cat’s eye, when you should see a vet, and how you can provide some basic care at home.
It’s important to address cat eye discharge quickly, as ignoring it can lead to more serious problems. If you notice discharge, especially if it’s brown, getting prompt veterinary attention is key to getting your feline friend feeling better.
Decoding the Color: What Does Brown Eye Discharge Indicate?
The color of your cat’s eye discharge can hint at what’s going on. Brown discharge usually means there’s blood present, either old or dried.
What could cause brown discharge?
- Minor trauma or irritation: Mild bleeding can sometimes result from a small injury or irritation to the eye.
- Uveitis: Brown discharge may point to a more serious underlying condition like uveitis (inflammation inside the eye).
- Dried discharge: Sometimes, clear or slightly colored discharge dries and turns brown as it’s exposed to air.
It’s important to pay attention to other symptoms too. Is there any redness or swelling around the eye? Is your cat squinting? Is the discharge accompanied by sneezing or a runny nose? All these details can help your vet figure out what’s wrong.
Common Culprits: Medical Conditions Associated with Eye Discharge
A suddenly gunky or crusty eye can be a sign of a range of medical conditions, some of which are more serious than others.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the membrane that lines the eyelid and eyeball. Conjunctivitis can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or even just some random irritant that’s gotten into your kitty’s eye.
With conjunctivitis, you’ll likely notice redness and swelling of the conjunctiva. The discharge from the eye may be watery, mucousy, or even rust-colored.
Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1)
FHV-1 is a common cause of upper respiratory infections and conjunctivitis in cats, and it can cause recurring eye problems, especially in kittens.
FHV-1 can cause a clear, watery discharge that may become purulent (pus-like). You may also see sneezing, nasal discharge, and fever.
Blocked Tear Ducts
If your cat’s tear ducts are blocked, the tears won’t drain properly, which can lead to excessive tearing and discharge. This is more common in flat-faced breeds, like Persians and Himalayans.
If your cat has blocked tear ducts, you’ll probably notice excessive tearing, or epiphora, and wetness or staining around the eyes.
Other potential causes of brown cat eye discharge
Although a blocked tear duct is the most common cause of brownish discharge, there are several other possibilities to consider.
Allergies
Like people, cats can be affected by allergies. Allergies can cause inflammation and discharge in your cat’s eyes. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, and even ingredients in their food. Signs of allergies include watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, and lots of eye rubbing.
Foreign bodies
It’s possible that your cat has something stuck in their eye. Dust, debris, or plant material can all irritate the eye. If the irritation is severe enough, it can cause a pus-like discharge. If your cat is squinting, pawing at their eye, and tearing excessively, look closely to see if you can see a foreign object in their eye.
Uveitis
Uveitis is an inflammation of the uvea, which is the middle layer of the eye. Symptoms of uveitis can include pain, squinting, changes in pupil size, and even a brownish discharge if there’s bleeding inside the eye.
When should you see a vet?
If you notice eye discharge in your cat, it’s important to keep a close eye on it. Quick treatment is key to preventing vision loss and other complications. Even if you think it’s “just allergies,” it’s always best to consult with a vet if you’re concerned.
Here are some warning signs that mean you should book an appointment ASAP:
- The discharge changes color or consistency (for example, if it goes from clear to yellow or green).
- The discharge lasts more than a few days.
- Your cat is squinting, and their eye looks red, swollen, or cloudy.
- Your cat seems to be in pain.
- The discharge is bloody.
Dr. Lauren Witter says, “If the discharge is excessive, discolored, foul-smelling, or accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, swelling, or squinting, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian for evaluation and appropriate treatment.”
Veterinary Diagnosis and Treatment Options
If you notice brown discharge in your cat’s eye, it’s best to get a veterinary diagnosis as soon as possible.
Diagnostic Procedures
First, your vet will give your cat a comprehensive eye exam to look for any abnormalities.
They may also perform other diagnostic tests, such as:
- A fluorescein stain to check for corneal ulcers
- A Schirmer tear test to measure tear production
- Cytology or culture to identify any infectious agents
Treatment Approaches
Once your vet has diagnosed the cause of the discharge, they can recommend a course of treatment.
For infections, this might mean antibiotics (for bacterial infections) or antiviral meds (for viral infections).
For allergies, antihistamines or steroids may help reduce inflammation, or your vet may recommend a hypoallergenic diet if they suspect a food allergy.
For other conditions, surgery may be needed to correct eyelid abnormalities (like entropion) or to unblock tear ducts. If a foreign object is to blame, your vet will clean it from the eye.
How to manage mild eye discharge at home
If your cat’s eye discharge is mild and you’ve ruled out anything serious with a vet, you can try gently cleaning their eyes.
- Use a warm, damp cloth or special pet wipes to gently wipe away any discharge. Don’t touch the eyeball directly.
- Always use a clean cloth or wipe for each eye to avoid spreading anything.
It’s important not to use human eye drops or other medications without talking to your vet first. Steroid eye drops, in particular, can make things worse if the discharge is caused by feline herpesvirus.
Putting It All Together
The best way to protect your cat from eye problems is to regularly examine their eyes for any signs of trouble. Look for changes in color, shape, discharge, or sensitivity to light.
You can also take preventative steps such as keeping up with yearly vaccinations and avoiding situations where your cat will be crowded together with other animals, which can spread infectious diseases.
Early detection and prompt treatment are essential for maintaining your cat’s eye health and vision. When you notice something unusual about your cat’s eyes, contact your veterinarian right away.