It's not uncommon for cat owners to notice their feline friends sporting eye boogers, also known as eye discharge. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as an internal imbalance, inflammation of the tear duct, eye injuries, or even a diet that's too high in sodium. When eye discharge accumulates around your cat's eyes, it creates an environment where bacteria can thrive, potentially leading to eye infections. Therefore, it’s often recommended that cat owners clean their cat’s eye discharge daily.
Common Causes of Eye Discharge in Cats
1. Internal Imbalance:
Cats may have a predisposition to internal heat, which can result in inflammation and excess eye discharge.
2. Tear Duct Infection (Dacryocystitis):
If your cat has a tear duct infection, they may produce yellowish-green discharge and have excessive tearing.
3. Eye Injury:
If your cat has sustained an injury to their eye, you may notice dark red, jelly-like discharge or yellow discharge tinged with blood.
4. High Sodium Diet:
Feeding your cat food that’s too salty can also cause increased eye discharge.
Should You Clean Your Cat's Eye Boogers Every Day?
Yes, it's crucial to clean your cat's eye discharge regularly. Persistent eye discharge often signals a blocked tear duct or overactive tear glands. Dust, hair, foreign objects, and a high-sodium diet can trigger excessive tear production, leading to dirty and bacteria-prone eye areas. In severe cases, this can cause eye infections, skin problems around the eyes, and tear stains. Therefore, daily cleaning of your cat's eye discharge is essential for maintaining their eye health.