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Our cat has clear and sticky white discharge from her tear duct in her right eye. The eye is watery and slightly pink and inflamed. She is not scratching at it and does not appear to be in pain. However, she does tend to close it and attempt to clear it by blinking frequently.We have read that eye complications can progress quickly. Do you think we should take her to emergency care tonight or make an appt. for tomorrow?We moved into a new home three days ago and this condition has been taking place for about two days.She is 12 years old, appears to be in good health, and has no other medical conditions we are aware of.
Optional Information: Pet's Gender: Female Pet's Age: 12 Already Tried: Gently wipe corner of eye with wet tissue to clear discharge. It returns within the hour.
Hello,I am so sorry your girl is having some trouble.This could be due to infection or injury to the eye. You are correct that eye problems can progress quickly , however if she does not seem painful and is not rubbing at the eye then I think waiting until tomorrow would be fine.If you have any sterile saline used for contact lenses then you can rinse they eye with this. Other then that I would just continue to wipe the outside of the eye and have her seen tomorrow.I hope this helps and she feels better soonCandy
We will get some saline solution from the store now and continue to wipe clean. It has been my experience that if it is only a clogged tear duct that it often corrects itself in a matter of days.She was not injured that we know of (she is an indoor-only cat). Her eye is not cloudy, mis-shaped, discolored, or unusual in any other way.
You are correct that some cases of a clogged duct will clear but it is important that you be sure there is not a scratch or infection in the eye. A scratch to the eye can result from something as simply as dust getting in the eye. A clogged duct will cause some discharge but once the eye becomes red we have to be sure the eye is not too dry or this to can result in scratches and ulcers in the eye.
Experience: Practicing Veterinary Technician for 23 years.Former Veterinary Practice Owner, Technician Trainer
Thank you Candy!