Your complete guide: eye conditions in cats

A cat’s eyes are one of their most striking features, which means it’s usually easy to spot when something’s wrong! Cats can struggle with many different types of eye conditions. But the good news is that most are very treatable when caught early enough.

We always recommend a trip to the vet if you suspect your tailmate has an eye issue. But knowing what’s what ahead of your appointment is always helpful, so we’ve put together our complete guide to eye conditions in cats.

Read on to find out more, from eye discharge in cats to allergies.

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What does normal cat eye discharge look like?

Normal eye discharge looks clear and watery, and will sometimes present as a bit of crustiness in the corner of your cat’s eye after they’ve been asleep. This is completely fine.

Normal eye discharge accumulates and dries out while your pet sleeps, leaving behind small crusts.

Tear film helps to lubricate the eye, keeping it moist and comfortable. But you shouldn’t notice the discharge often.

Is it normal for cats to have eye discharge?

Occasional clear eye discharge is normal for cats. It should only be a small amount and not be seen throughout the whole day.

If your cat has continually weeping eyes, a thick discharge, or discoloured discharge, then this usually indicates a problem.

If your cat is closing their eye or rubbing it, then these are also signs that something's not quite right. If you see any of these symptoms, then call your vet.

What does healthy vs. unhealthy cat eye discharge look like?

Remember: there’s often overlap between different types of discharge, so don’t rely on this chart - speak to your vet to get a diagnosis.

Why does my cat have gunky eyes? Common causes

What causes cat eye discharge?

There are several conditions that can cause eye discharge, including:

• Allergies: Environmental allergens, like pollens, or household irritants like dust or fumes. Our guide on allergies can help here.

• Blocked tear ducts: Tears overflow onto the face instead of draining down the nasolacrimal duct into the nose.

• Corneal ulcer: A painful scratch or erosion on the eye surface.

• Dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca): Lack of quality tear production, leading to dry, ulcer-prone eyes with a thicker-than-normal discharge.

• Eyelid abnormalities: An eyelid that rolls inwards and rubs against the eye (entropion) can cause discharge, discomfort, and ulceration.

• Foreign body: Something trapped in the eye, like a grass seed or thorn.

• Glaucoma: Increased eye pressure; this condition is painful and progressive. It could lead to loss of vision.

• Upper respiratory infection (cat flu): Caused by feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus, or bacteria like Mycoplasma felis.

• Uveitis: Inflammation inside the eye; can be due to another eye issue or can be secondary to a serious systemic illness such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).

Note: The term “conjunctivitis” may be used for cats with eye discharge. Conjunctivitis just means inflammation of the eye lining, which can be caused by a variety of things, including infection, allergies, and foreign bodies.

Why does my cat have brown or rust-coloured eye discharge?

Brown or rust-coloured discharge is often seen in cats with blocked tear ducts or conjunctivitis. The brown/rust colour comes from pigments in the tears. This problem is more common in flat-faced breeds (Persians, Himalayans, Exotic Shorthairs) due to their facial features.

Why does my cat have white or gooey eye discharge?

A thick white or grey discharge could indicate dry eye or infection. Dry eye is caused by a reduction in tear production, which can lead to ulcers, scarring, and vision loss if left untreated.

Why are my cat's eyes watering?

Persistent clear watering can occur for a number of reasons, and don’t worry, it isn’t because your cat is sad; they don’t cry emotional tears like we do - they’re far too tough for that.

Reasons for watering include:

• Allergies.

• Blocked tear ducts.

• Early infection.

• Eye ulcers.

• Eyelid abnormalities.

• Foreign bodies.

Why is my cat's eye weeping and closed?

A closed or partially closed eye indicates your cat is in pain, so you must get a same day vet appointment. Causes for weeping closed eyes include a corneal ulcer, foreign body in the eye, acute glaucoma, or severe infection. Your vet will help determine the cause of the problem.

What's the third eyelid in cats, and why is it showing?

The third eyelid (nictitating membrane) normally sits in the corner of the eye, but it may be seen occasionally, especially when your cat is sleepy.

If the third eyelid is persistently visible, then it could be an indication of several different issues, including illness, stress, dehydration, upper respiratory infection, and Haws syndrome (a self-limiting condition which often occurs alongside gastrointestinal issues like diarrhoea).

It’s usually best to get your cat checked over by a vet, especially if your cat seems unwell.

What causes runny eyes in kittens?

Runny eyes are very common in kittens as they’re especially susceptible to upper respiratory infections, often referred to as ‘cat flu’.

Herpesvirus is the most common cause, and it can become a lifelong recurrent issue, with flare-ups possible.

You should take a kitten with discharge issues to a vet promptly, as things can deteriorate quickly.

Eye conditions in older cats

Why do older cats get cloudy eyes?

There are two main reasons why a cat may get cloudy eyes: nuclear sclerosis and cataracts. Both conditions affect the lens inside the eye.

Nuclear Sclerosis vs. Cataracts

• Nuclear sclerosis (also known as lenticular sclerosis): A very common age-related change affecting both eyes. They may appear slightly blueish and hazy in appearance, but it doesn't affect vision significantly. This condition is not painful.

• Cataracts: Less common in cats than in dogs. Cataracts can cause vision impairment and may just affect one eye, rather than both. They’re often white and opaque in appearance.

Why do older cats' eyes change colour?

Any new or changing discolouration in an older cat’s eye should be checked out by a vet as there are a few reasons why this might happen, including:

• Iris melanosis: A harmless pigment change creating dark spots on the iris.

• Iris melanoma: Rare but can be cancerous. It may appear very similar to iris melanosis, so any dark spots that grow or change should be checked.

• Uveitis: This can cause colour changes in the iris, usually accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain.

Eye conditions in flat-faced cats

Why do flat-faced cats have more eye problems?

There's a reason why flat-faced (brachycephalic) cats tend to have more problems. Their characteristic short muzzle interferes with normal tear drainage, leading to epiphora (tear overflow). This is not a disease per say, but a structural issue. Epiphora can lead to fur staining and skin irritation.

Brachycephalic cats also have protruding eyes, meaning there is more corneal exposure, which increases the risk of dryness and injury.

Breeds that are most likely to be affected include the Persian, Himalayan, Exotic Shorthair, and Scottish Fold.

How to clean a cat's eyes at home

How do I clean my cat's gunky eyes?

• Use cotton wool pads dampened with lukewarm water or cooled boiled water.

• Wipe gently from the inner corner outward.

• Use a fresh pad for each eye — never the same pad on both eyes.

• Never use human eye drops or wipes unless specifically advised by your vet.

What should I not put on my cat's eyes?

• Human eye drops, unless these have been prescribed by a vet. They can harm your cat due to the wrong pH and formulation.

• Cotton balls (fibres can irritate) – cotton pads are preferable.

• Saline solution unless vet-recommended.

• Essential oils or any scented product.

When should I take my cat to the vet for eye problems?

How urgent is cat eye discharge?

• Same day/emergency: Closed eye, eye injury, sudden changes, bloody discharge, visible third eyelid alongside illness.

• Prompt (as soon as practical): Yellow or green discharge, persistent watering, squinting.

• Non-urgent but needs booking: Clear intermittent discharge that has been present for weeks, mild fur staining.

If in doubt, call your vet, as eyes can deteriorate quickly. They’ll be able to advise you further.

What will the vet do for cat eye problems?

It’s usually straightforward when you get to the vet, so don’t worry too much. They’ll perform a physical examination and check both of your cat’s eyes closely. This may involve using an ophthalmoscope (magnifying light).

Your cat may also need a fluorescein stain test to detect corneal ulcers. If your vet suspects glaucoma, they may recommend tonometry (pressure measurement). Sometimes samples will need to be taken from your pet’s eye, like sterile swabs for bacterial/viral culture.

Complex cases could need referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist for more detailed investigations and treatment options.

Our cat insurance could help with eye problems in cats, with up to £20,000 vet fee cover on our Complete Care plan and 24/7 access to a video vet.

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Common questions about cat eye problems

Why does my cat have gunky eyes?

Gunky eyes can be caused by a number of different conditions, but viral or bacterial infection is the most common.

Why is my cat's eye weeping and closed?

A sore, weeping eye can occur for various reasons, including an eye ulcer, a foreign body, eyelid abnormalities, injury, or early infection.

Why does my cat have brown discharge from their eyes?

Brown discharge can be seen in cats with allergies, infections, eye ulceration, and eyelid abnormalities, so it’s best to get your pet checked over.

Is cat eye discharge contagious to humans?

The risk is low. But some feline eye infections could affect humans. Make sure to practice good hygiene after handling your cat, and contact a doctor if you think you are affected.

Can cat eye discharge go away on its own?

Occasionally, an issue may resolve itself, but it depends on the underlying cause. For example, short term exposure to dust or other irritants may cause self-limiting weepy eyes.

Why do my cat's eyes water all the time?

This could be due to their facial features (in the case of brachycephalic cats), blocked tear ducts, allergies, eyelid abnormalities, or other irritation.

What does cat conjunctivitis look like?

Conjunctivitis means inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the membrane that lines the outside of the eye. Your cat’s eye may be red, and the third eyelid may be more pronounced than usual. You may also see discharge from your pet’s eye/s, and your cat may be squinting or rubbing at their face.

Why does my kitten have runny eyes?

‘Cat flu’ (upper respiratory infection) is a very common cause of runny eyes in kittens. It’s best to get your kitten checked over by a vet in case they need treatment.