Understanding Cat Watery Eyes (Epiphora)

Watery eyes in cats, medically known as epiphora, is a common condition where tears overflow onto the face. While a little bit of clear discharge can be normal, persistent tearing, squinting, or colored discharge indicates an underlying health issue. As the largest veterinary clinic in Yau Ma Tei, LAMCVET sees numerous cases of feline eye conditions every week.

Finding a reliable “cat watery eyes vet Hong Kong” is essential because eye problems can escalate quickly from minor irritation to potential vision loss. Our team, with over 30 years of clinical experience, is equipped to diagnose the root cause accurately, whether it requires simple medication or advanced imaging.

5 Common Causes of Watery Eyes in Cats

If you are searching for a vet because your cat has watery eyes, it is likely due to one of the following five reasons:

1. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

This is the inflammation of the pale pink lining around the eye. It is the most common cause of watery eyes in cats. It can be caused by bacterial or viral infections (such as Feline Herpesvirus), or environmental irritants like dust or chemicals.

2. Corneal Ulcers

Active cats often scratch their eyes during play or fights. A scratch on the clear surface of the eye (the cornea) is painful and causes excessive tearing and squinting. This is a medical emergency. If left untreated, the eye could rupture. Our 24-hour emergency service is always available for such urgent cases.

3. Blocked Tear Ducts

Just like humans, cats have ducts that drain tears into the nose. If these ducts are blocked due to inflammation or anatomical defects (common in flat-faced breeds like Persians), tears will overflow down the face.

4. Upper Respiratory Infections (Cat Flu)

Watery eyes are frequently accompanied by sneezing and nasal discharge. This “Cat Flu” is highly contagious and requires veterinary attention to prevent secondary bacterial infections, especially in kittens and senior cats.

5. Entropion (Inward Turning Eyelids)

Some cats are born with eyelids that roll inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea constantly. This causes chronic irritation and watering. Surgical correction is often required, which our experienced surgical team can perform in our advanced operating theatres.

Why Choose LAMCVET for Eye Care?

When dealing with delicate organs like eyes, you need a facility that combines experience with technology. Located conveniently at G/F, Shop 5-7, 375 Shanghai Street, Yau Ma Tei (3 mins from MTR Exit C), LAMCVET offers distinct advantages:

• Advanced Diagnostics: We are one of the few clinics in Kowloon equipped with CT and MRI scanners. While most eye issues are diagnosed with physical exams, complex cases involving tumors behind the eye or deep infections require this advanced imaging.
• 30+ Years Experience: Our veterinary team has decades of combined experience handling complex medical and surgical cases.
• Transparent Pricing: We believe in clear communication. Our General Consultation fee is $350, and our Emergency Consultation (24/7) is $1000. There are no hidden charges.
• 24-Hour Availability: Eye injuries don’t adhere to business hours. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ensuring your pet never has to wait for pain relief.

Diagnosis and Treatment Process

When you bring your cat to LAMCVET, our vets will perform a comprehensive ophthalmic examination. This may include:

• Fluorescein Staining: A green dye test to check for corneal ulcers or scratches.
• Schirmer Tear Test: To measure tear production levels.
• Intraocular Pressure (IOP) Measurement: To check for glaucoma (high pressure) or uveitis (low pressure).

Treatment depends entirely on the diagnosis. Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotic drops or ointments. Viral flare-ups may require antiviral medication and immune support. In cases of anatomical issues like Entropion, our surgical team is prepared to intervene.

FAQ: Cat Eye Care at LAMCVET

Q: How much is the consultation for my cat’s eye issue?
A: Our standard consultation fee is HK$350. If you come during emergency hours (or for a critical emergency), the fee is HK$1000. Medication and tests are charged separately with full transparency.

Q: My cat’s eye is cloudy, can I wait until tomorrow?
A: No. Cloudiness usually indicates edema (swelling) of the cornea or internal eye issues. Delaying treatment can lead to permanent blindness. Please utilize our 24-hour service immediately.

Q: Where is the clinic located?
A: We are the largest clinic in Yau Ma Tei, located at 375 Shanghai Street. It is a short 3-minute walk from Yau Ma Tei MTR Station Exit C.