: A previous bout of feline herpesvirus can cause scarring in the duct, making it narrow or blocked.
: Some cats are born without a proper opening for the duct, a condition called imperforate puncta . The Signs to Watch For
The most obvious sign is a "wet face". Owners typically notice: blocked tear duct in cats
Blocked tear ducts in cats can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired later in life.
The causes are generally categorized into congenital, acquired, and breed-predisposed factors. : A previous bout of feline herpesvirus can
A blocked tear duct in a cat is rarely sight-threatening but significantly impacts quality of life and comfort. While flat-faced breeds are predisposed to chronic epiphora due to their anatomy, sudden onset in other breeds warrants immediate investigation to rule out dental disease or tumors. Owners are advised to seek veterinary care to distinguish this benign condition from painful corneal ulcers or severe infections.
Tears are produced by glands around the eye to keep the cornea moist and clean. Normally, excess tears drain through two tiny openings (puncta) located at the inner corner of the upper and lower eyelids. From there, tears travel through the nasolacrimal duct and exit into the nose and throat. Owners typically notice: Blocked tear ducts in cats
This is the story of , a curious orange tabby, and his experience with a common but pesky condition: a blocked nasolacrimal duct. The Mystery of the "Rusty" Tears
This is a critical and often overlooked cause. The roots of the upper teeth lie directly beneath the tear duct.
A veterinarian will perform the following:
A veterinarian will not simply assume a blocked tear duct based on tearing; they must rule out other causes.