Why Does My Cat Have Brown Tear Stains and Eye Discharge?

If a cat’s tears flow, they may turn brown after oxidation by air. First rinse the cat’s eyes clean with saline solution. If the cat keeps tearing or produces more discharge, consider whether it is caused by bacterial or viral infection. If both the eyes and nose show increased discharge and the eyes are red and swollen, it is very likely caused by herpesvirus infection—take the cat to a veterinary hospital for examination and treatment promptly. If it is caused by a viral infection, antiviral medication is needed.