Why Is My Cat Crying Reddish-Brown Tears?

1 Common Causes of Reddish-Brown Tear Discharge in Cats

Reddish-brown tears usually stem from overly salty food, a blocked nasolacrimal duct, or eye inflammation. When this happens, judge the specific cause from the actual situation and give the right treatment. Below we detail the common causes.

Common causes and their solutions

1. Breed predisposition: Normally a cat’s tears are clear and minimal. But flat-faced breeds have short tear ducts and airways, so they tear easily and develop tear stains. The Exotic Shorthair is a typical example and must not live in dusty or smoky environments, or its tear glands overproduce—often yellowish- or reddish-brown tears due to oxidation, a common trait of flat-faced cats. For such breeds, clean the eye area daily to prevent stains.

Also, a blocked nasolacrimal duct causes reddish-brown tears because secretions cannot drain through the duct and overflow from the eye corner, oxidizing to reddish-brown if left too long. If a non-flat-faced cat tears frequently, have a vet check the duct.

2. Salty diet: Too much salt or dry food causes ‘internal heat,’ increasing tear secretion. The excess discharge oxidizes to reddish-brown. Adjust to a bland diet, offer cooling foods, and give more water. Avoid salty human food and low-quality treats; keep the diet light.

3. Eye inflammation: Infection or irritation (conjunctivitis, blepharitis, corneal ulcer, dacryocystitis) causes heavy discharge that oxidizes; often with red swollen lids, edema, and trouble opening the eye. Use pet eye drops and an Elizabethan collar to stop scratching. If it persists, suspect mycoplasma, chlamydia, or other infection—see a vet.

The above covers common causes and solutions. Frequent tearing is not normal; take it seriously.