Feline Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction: An Overview A blocked tear duct in cats, medically known as nasolacrimal duct obstruction, is a condition where the normal drainage path for tears is hindered. In a healthy eye, tears lubricate the surface and then drain through small openings called puncta into the nasolacrimal duct, which leads to the nose and throat. When this system fails, it results in , or an overflow of tears down the face. Symptoms and Clinical Signs
The continuous presence of moisture breaks down the skin tissue beneath the eyes, leading to redness, raw skin, hair loss, and a foul odor.
: The Feline Herpesvirus is a leading cause, often causing scarring that permanently narrows the ducts. cat blocked tear duct
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or hair loss beneath the eye due to constant moisture. Foul odor caused by bacteria growing in the damp fur. Feline Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction: An Overview A blocked
The hallmark sign is – clear or mucoid tear overflow staining the periocular fur, most notably at the medial canthus. With chronicity, epiphora staining (reddish-brown discoloration due to porphyrins in tears) is evident in light-colored cats. Additional signs include:
A continuous overflow of clear, watery tears spilling over the lower eyelid and running down the face. Symptoms and Clinical Signs The continuous presence of
Noticeable swelling may occur in the lower, inner corner of the eye or along the side of the muzzle due to fluid buildup or an inflamed tear sac. Primary Causes of Tear Duct Obstruction
specialized clinics like UC Davis have even pioneered the use of stents to keep the duct permanently open. Conservative Management: If the blockage is due to permanent scarring and isn't causing pain, many owners choose "conservative management"—using warm compresses and Pet Eye Wipes daily to keep the area clean and prevent skin breakdown. VETgirl +6 Is your cat showing a clear watery discharge, or has it started to turn thick and yellow? AI can make mistakes, so double-check responses Copy Creating a public link... You can now share this thread with others Good response Bad response 16 sites Lacrimal Duct Obstruction in Cats | VCA Animal Hospitals This defect results in the lack of an opening where the duct meets the conjunctiva (pink tissue surrounding the eye), a condition ... VCA Animal Hospitals Feline Epiphora - Blog Archives - The Cat's Meow Rescue Sep 5, 2023 —
A veterinarian will perform a physical exam and may perform a . They place a harmless green dye in the eye; if the duct is open, the dye should appear at the nostril within a few minutes. If it doesn't, a blockage is confirmed.