Cat Blocked Tear Duct [repack] <PREMIUM - 2026>

Reddish-brown or rust-colored staining of the fur beneath the inner corners of the eyes. This discoloration occurs when porphyrins—iron-rich molecules naturally present in cat tears—oxidize upon contact with air.

A 4-year-old Persian cat presented with chronic left-sided brownish ocular discharge. Schirmer tear test and corneal staining were normal. Fluorescein dye failed to reach the left nostril after 15 minutes. Nasolacrimal flushing with saline encountered mild resistance, followed by reflux of mucoid debris. No foreign body or mass was seen on skull CT. The cat was diagnosed with chronic idiopathic partial obstruction. Treatment consisted of weekly ductal flushing under sedation and topical antibiotic-steroid ointment for 4 weeks, resulting in decreased discharge. The owner was advised of possible recurrence. cat blocked tear duct

Nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO), commonly referred to as a blocked tear duct, is a relatively common ophthalmic condition in domestic cats. The nasolacrimal duct system is responsible for draining tears from the ocular surface into the nasal cavity. When this system becomes obstructed, epiphora (excessive tearing) results, often leading to periocular dermatitis, cosmetic concerns, and in some cases, secondary infection. This paper reviews the anatomy of the feline nasolacrimal system, the various etiologies of obstruction (congenital and acquired), diagnostic techniques including the fluorescein dye transit test and dacryocystorhinography, and current medical and surgical management strategies. A focus is placed on breed predispositions, particularly in brachycephalic cats, and the importance of ruling out underlying causes such as neoplasia or chronic rhinitis. Reddish-brown or rust-colored staining of the fur beneath

Feline nasolacrimal duct obstruction is a manageable yet often chronic condition that requires a systematic diagnostic approach. The fluorescein dye transit test and ductal flushing remain essential diagnostic and therapeutic tools. Clinicians should differentiate congenital (breed-associated) from acquired (inflammatory, neoplastic, traumatic) causes to guide prognosis and treatment. While medical management suffices for mild cases, surgical bypass is available for severe, refractory obstructions. Further research into the role of viral rhinitis in chronic feline NLDO would improve long-term management strategies. Schirmer tear test and corneal staining were normal

: Some kittens are born with "imperforate puncta," where the opening to the tear duct never formed.

Blockages can be categorized as either congenital (present from birth) or acquired:

: In cases where the blockage is permanent (common in flat-faced breeds), owners must regularly clean the area with pet-safe eye wipes to prevent skin infections.