Persian Cat Runny Eyes

Persian cats, due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) anatomy, are prone to several eye problems, including runny eyes, which can be managed and prevented with proper care and cleaning. This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed information on how to manage and clean your Persian cat’s runny eyes, as well as some natural remedies and products to help with tear stains and eye discharge.

What are the Common Eye Problems in Persian Cats?

1. Epiphora (Tear Overflow):

2. This condition involves tears that do not follow their usual escape route, leading to wet and potentially infected eyes. It is common in Persian cats due to their narrow tear ducts and facial structure.

3. Entropion:

4. This is a condition where the eyelids turn inward, causing the eyelashes to scratch the cornea, leading to excessive tearing and inflammation.

5. Exophthalmos:

6. This condition involves protruding eyeballs, which can cause discomfort and increase the risk of complications such as corneal edema.

How to Manage and Clean Runny Eyes in Persian Cats?

Step-by-Step Cleaning Method

1. Gather Necessary Tools:
2. Clean, dry cotton pads or soft towels
3. Saline solution or eye drops specifically formulated for cats
4. Eye wipes (if preferred)

5. Hyaluronic acid eye drops for soothing sensitive eyes.

6. Cleaning the Eyes:

7. Daily Cleaning: Gently wipe away any discharge or tears from the eyes using a clean, dry cotton pad or soft towel. This helps prevent the buildup of debris and reduces the risk of infection.
8. Using Saline Solution: If the discharge is dry and hard, use a saline solution to moisten it before wiping it away. This helps in removing the dried discharge without causing irritation.

9. Eye Wipes: If you prefer using eye wipes, choose ones specifically formulated for cats. These wipes can help break down the eye discharge and clean the area gently.

10. Drying the Area:

11. After cleaning, use a clean, dry cotton pad or soft towel to pat the area gently, ensuring no residual moisture remains. This helps prevent dirt and bacteria from accumulating.

Recommended Frequency

• Daily Cleaning: Clean your Persian cat’s eyes daily to prevent the buildup of discharge and reduce the risk of infections.

Specific Tools or Products Needed

• Saline Solution: Pure NaCl (sodium chloride) solution to clean the eyes and remove dried discharge.
• Hyaluronic Acid Eye Drops: To soothe sensitive eyes and provide moisture.
• Eye Wipes: Specifically formulated for cats to help clean and prevent tear stains.

What are the Natural Remedies and Products for Tear Stains and Eye Discharge?

1. Eye Powder:

2. Use a dedicated eye powder to prevent tear stains. This acts as a protective barrier, ensuring that tear trails do not leave marks.

3. Hyaluronic Acid Eye Drops:

4. These drops are great for soothing sensitive eyes and providing moisture. They can be used regularly to calm the eyes and reduce irritation.

5. Saline Solution:

6. Saline solution can be used to clean the eyes and remove dried discharge. It is gentle and effective in maintaining eye hygiene.

Application Methods and Measurements

• Saline Solution:
• Apply a few drops of saline solution to the affected area to moisten the discharge before wiping it away with a clean cotton pad.

• No specific measurements are required; just enough to moisten the area.

• Hyaluronic Acid Eye Drops:

• Follow the instructions on the product packaging for the correct dosage. Typically, 1-2 drops per eye are sufficient.

• Apply the drops gently into the corner of the eye, allowing the cat to blink to distribute the drops.

• Eye Powder:

• Apply a small amount of eye powder around the eyes after cleaning to prevent tear stains. The exact amount may vary depending on the product, but generally, a light dusting is sufficient.

References

1. Disorders of Persian Cats by Royal Veterinary College
2. Persian Cat Eye Care by Sweet Purrfections
3. Caring for a Persian Cat with a Flat Face by Untamed