Eye discharge—often seen as watery, crusty, or mucous-like “boogers”—is a common issue in cats. While minor cases may be harmless, persistent or excessive eye gunk can signal an underlying health concern.
This vet-verified article will help you:
- Understand what causes eye discharge in cats
- Know when it’s normal vs. concerning
- Learn how to clean your cat’s eyes safely
- Discover when to seek veterinary care
What Is Cat Eye Discharge?
Eye discharge in cats can appear in several forms:
- Clear and watery
- Yellow, green, or brown mucus
- Crusty buildup near the corners of the eyes
These are often casually called “eye boogers” or “sleep,” but they can be signs of anything from dust irritation to viral infections.
Common Causes of Eye Discharge in Cats
1. Normal Tear Drainage
Small amounts of clear discharge that dry and form crusts near the eyes can be perfectly normal, especially during sleep or wind exposure.
2. Allergies or Irritants
- Dust, smoke, strong cleaning products, or pollen
- May cause mild, clear discharge and redness
Vet Tip: Switch to unscented, pet-safe cleaners and monitor if symptoms improve.
3. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
This inflammation of the conjunctiva can result from viruses, bacteria, or allergens.
Signs:
- Red, swollen eyes
- Watery or thick discharge (yellow or green)
- Squinting or pawing at the face
4. Upper Respiratory Infections
Often caused by viruses like feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) or calicivirus.
Signs include:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Loss of appetite
- Crusty or goopy eye discharge
These are especially common in kittens and shelter cats.
5. Blocked Tear Ducts
If a cat’s tear ducts don’t drain properly, tears can overflow, leading to constant wetness or staining.
6. Injury or Foreign Object
Dust, a scratch, or a lodged object (like a seed) can trigger irritation and discharge from one or both eyes.
7. Corneal Ulcers or Eye Diseases
Serious conditions like ulcers, glaucoma, or uveitis can also cause discharge, pain, and vision changes. These require prompt veterinary attention.
How to Clean Your Cat’s Eye Discharge Safely
If your cat has mild, occasional discharge:
Step-by-step guide:
- Wash your hands
- Dampen a clean cotton pad or soft cloth with warm water or sterile saline
- Gently wipe the corner of your cat’s eye (never rub the eyeball)
- Use a new pad for each eye
- Reward your cat with treats afterward
When to See a Vet
Contact your vet if your cat has:
- Yellow, green, or thick discharge
- Squinting or blinking excessively
- Red, swollen eyes
- Frequent pawing at the eyes
- Loss of appetite, lethargy, or sneezing
- Discharge that lasts longer than a few days
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is eye discharge normal in cats?
A small amount of clear crusty discharge can be normal. Thick, colored, or persistent discharge is not and should be evaluated.
Q2: Can I use human eye drops on my cat?
No. Only use vet-prescribed drops made for cats. Human medications can be harmful or ineffective.
Q3: Can cat eye infections spread to humans?
Most cat eye infections are not contagious to humans, but always wash your hands after cleaning and avoid contact if your cat has a suspected infection.
Q4: Do kittens get more eye discharge than adult cats?
Yes, especially those with upper respiratory infections or weak immune systems.
Q5: Will my cat’s eye discharge go away on its own?
Mild irritation may resolve naturally, but infections or injuries require medical treatment to prevent complications.
Final Thoughts
While the occasional crusty eye may be harmless, persistent or unusual discharge is a sign your cat needs help. By keeping their environment clean, avoiding irritants, and knowing when to seek veterinary care, you can help protect your cat’s precious eyes and overall well-being.
