Eye discharge / heavy tear staining in cats: what to do
Yellow-green discharge suggests conjunctivitis, often herpes-virus related.
What are the common causes?
Conjunctivitis (herpes-related)
Monitor for 48 hoursA common kitten eye problem, often from latent herpes-virus flares.
Corneal ulcer
See a vet within 24 hoursTrauma or herpes virus; feline ulcers can deepen within days (melting ulcers).
Upper respiratory infection (cat flu)
Monitor for 48 hoursMostly herpes/calicivirus; kittens and unvaccinated cats are at risk — a blocked nose leads to refusing food.
Home care & observation tips
- ✓Clean around the eyes with a warm damp pad
- ✓Reduce stress (stress triggers flares)
- ✓Use vet-prescribed antiviral/antibiotic drops
- ✓Use an e-collar
- ✓Fluorescein staining within 24 hours
- ✓Recheck on schedule until healed
When must you see a vet?
- ⚠A white cornea or an eye held shut
- ⚠Repeated flares getting worse
- ⚠Purulent discharge + cloudiness
- ⚠The eye cannot open at all
- ⚠No food at all for 24 hours
- ⚠Rapid or open-mouth breathing
FAQ
Is eye discharge / heavy tear staining in cats serious?
It depends on the combination of symptoms, how long it has lasted, and your pet's energy and appetite.Note that it can appear in problems that need prompt care, such as Corneal ulcer. Enter the full symptom combination in our symptom checker for a more specific urgency assessment.
Can I monitor at home first? What should I watch?
If energy and appetite are normal with no other signs, 24-48 hours of monitoring is reasonable. Keep notes on frequency, duration, appetite, water intake, energy and what the stool/urine looks like — vets find this very useful.
What should I prepare before the clinic?
Note when the symptom started and how it changed; bring packaging or residue if ingestion is suspected; bring vaccination and deworming records; and if possible take a video (odd gait, cough sound) — clearer than describing.
Not sure how serious it is? Assess it with the symptom checker
Start symptom check →