Tear stains are dark patches of discoloration that can occur around a pet’s eyes. Although they do not pose any danger in themselves, they can be a sign of an underlying health condition. For this reason, we recommend seeking veterinary care if tear stains are an ongoing problem for your pet.
Causes of Tear Stains
Tear stains in pets are usually caused by epiphora (excessive tear production). Underlying causes include allergies, infection, physical abnormalities of the tear ducts or eyelashes, and health conditions such as glaucoma.
Tear stains can also develop as a result of consuming water that is high in iron or other minerals. Some pets are genetically predisposed to developing tear stains. These include brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds that have shallow eye sockets and other physical traits that can lead to improper tear drainage.
Symptoms of Tear Stains
The most common symptom of tear stains is dark reddish or brown staining of the fur around the eyes. This may be accompanied by watery eyes, foul odor, or redness and irritation of the eyes. If your pet displays any of these symptoms, please visit your veterinarian as soon as possible so they can be correctly diagnosed and treated.
Diagnosis of Tear Stains
Your veterinarian will assess your pet’s medical history and ask you a series of questions about the onset and severity of their symptoms. They will then perform a thorough ocular examination to check for abnormalities of the eye such as inflammation or improper tear drainage.
Routine tests such as a urinalysis and bloodwork may also be carried out to evaluate your pet’s health and rule out underlying illness. In addition, your veterinarian may recommend other specialized tests to aid the diagnostic process.
Treatment of Tear Stains
Treatment of tear stains will depend on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct defects in the eye. Other potential treatments for tear stains include antibiotics to fight infection and dietary changes to address allergies. Your veterinarian will also advise you on routine grooming and maintenance to prevent tear stains from recurring. Please follow all treatment advice closely and administer prescribed medications as instructed.
Prevention of Tear Stains
There are several measures you can take to prevent tear stains in pets. We recommend feeding a healthy, balanced diet to support your pet’s overall health. It is also a good idea to provide fresh, filtered water instead of tap water, which is often high in impurities. Finally, take care to keep your pet’s fur clean and dry, especially around the eyes. Please consult with your veterinarian if you need more information about preventing tear stains in pets.
