How to Clean Your Cat’s Eyes Daily You know that little bit of eye gunk that accumulates in the corners of your cat’s eyes? That’s completely normal, but it does need regular cleaning. Keeping your cat’s eyes clean helps prevent infections and catch potential health issues early. Why Cats Get Eye Discharge Some eye discharge is normal. Tears lubricate the eye and wash away debris. When tear ducts become temporarily blocked or there’s excess tear production, you get that characteristic brownish discharge. Brachycephalic breeds like Persians are particularly prone. Normal vs. Abnormal Eye Discharge Normal discharge is usually clear or slightly brown in small amounts. Abnormal discharge might be thick, yellow, green, or excessively watery. Redness, swelling, squinting, or odorous discharge could indicate infection needing veterinary attention. Daily Eye Cleaning Routine What You’ll Need Warm water, a soft damp cloth or cotton balls, and a bowl. Some prefer saline solution. Avoid soap, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh chemicals near your cat’s eyes. The Cleaning Process Approach calmly. Wet a soft cloth with warm water, wringing out excess. Gently wipe from the inner corner outward, using a different section for each wipe. Use a fresh cotton ball for each eye. For Stubborn Discharge If discharge has dried, hold a warm, damp cloth against the area for 10 to 15 seconds to soften it before wiping. Never try to scrape dried discharge. Breeds Prone to Excessive Eye Discharge Flat-faced breeds like Persians, Exotic Shorthairs, and Himalayans tend to have more eye discharge due to compressed facial structure. These breeds may need daily eye cleaning. When to See the Vet Schedule a vet visit if you notice persistent redness, squinting, thick yellow or green discharge, one eye producing more than the other, or if your cat paws at their eyes frequently. Frequently Asked Questions Q: How often should I clean my cat’s eyes? A: Checking daily and cleaning as needed is sufficient for most cats. Brachycephalic breeds may need daily cleaning. Q: Can I use human eye drops on my cat? A: No, never use human eye drops without veterinary guidance. Human products can contain harmful ingredients. Q: Why does one eye seem to have more discharge? A: Occasional differences are normal, but persistent asymmetry could indicate a blocked tear duct or infection. Q: Is tear staining permanent? A: Usually not permanent. Regular cleaning and keeping the area dry can significantly reduce staining over time. Veterinary Disclaimer The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified pet health provider with any questions you may have regarding your cat’s health or medical condition. Never disregard professional veterinary advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article. If you suspect your cat has a medical emergency, contact your veterinarian immediately.