Why do cats have red-brown tears?

Cats with red-brown tears may have their tears oxidized in the air, forming the characteristic color. As long as there are no other eye diseases in cats, regularly cleaning their eyes can help. If the cat has other abnormalities in addition to flowing red-brown secretions, such as increased eye secretions, red and swollen eyes, lethargy, sneezing, etc., it may be caused by factors such as excessive salt in the diet, eye inflammation, foreign objects in the eyes, or feline upper respiratory tract infection. It is recommended to see a veterinarian in time to determine the specific cause and treat accordingly.

1. Tears oxidized to red

If there are no other eye diseases in cats and they have red-brown tears, it may be due to tear oxidation after contact with oxygen, turning the tears into red-brown color. This is normal and owners only need to clean their cats' eyes regularly without worrying too much.

1. Excessive salt in diet

If the cat's daily food contains high amounts of fat and salt or regularly eats human food, it can easily cause internal heat and lead to red-brown tear production. In this case, it is necessary to adjust the cat's diet, keep it light, and encourage the cat to drink more water. Owners should use a wet towel to clean the tears from the cat's eyes promptly.

1. Eye inflammation

If the cat has red-brown tears along with red and swollen eyes, increased secretions, etc., it may be due to bacterial or viral eye infections, such as conjunctivitis. It is recommended to consult a veterinarian for medication treatment.

1. Foreign objects in the eyes

Red-brown tears in cats may also be caused by foreign objects entering the eyes, such as shampoo, hair, dust, etc. These materials can stimulate the eyes mechanically once they enter, causing tears. For small foreign objects, owners can use physiological saline to rinse the cat's eyes, allowing the objects to flow out naturally. Then, apply antibacterial and anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent infection. If the foreign object is large, the cat should be taken to a pet hospital for professional removal.

1. Feline upper respiratory tract infection (FUS)

If the cat has red-brown tears, lethargy, sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, increased eye secretions, and upper and lower eyelid adhesion, it may be infected with FUS. It is recommended to consult a doctor in time, and using interferon and lysine preparations can effectively inhibit virus reproduction, thus achieving therapeutic effects. However, after treatment for FUS, the cat may remain carriers lifelong.