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My cat's eye is watery, squinty, and has boogers. Is it serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 18 lbs

I’ve noticed that since yesterday my cat’s eye is watery, eye boogers and squinty. Is this anything I need to be really concerned about?

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on November 20th, 2017

I am so sorry to hear that Little John is experiencing these problems with his eye. Thank you for providing an excellent picture, it seems red and has discharge. Start by placing an e-collar or cone on Little John to prevent scratching or rubbing. If the eye is infected it is likely painful, this will prompt Him to scratch or rub his eye. However, this could inflict further damage, infection or even an ulceration. Because eye concerns with cats, such as infections, corneal ulcerations, cataracts and glaucoma, can progress rapidly I would have him examined by your veterinarian to diagnose the issue. The precise medication can then be dispensed by your veterinarian. Please do not attempt to treat an eye infection at home with any over the counter medications, drops or ointments. This can lead to permanent damage and unnecessary pain or discomfort. I hope this answer was helpful and that Little John feels better soon. Warmest regards to you both!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 18th, 2019

    Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. Without seeing Kalooey it is difficult to say for sure what the cause is. This could be due to a viral or bacterial infection and could be allergies. I would recommend having a veterinarian take a look at him so that the most appropriate treatment recommendations can be made. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 10th, 2019

    Hello. You might want to have Luna evaluated by your veterinarian to see if there is any conjunctivitis, allergies or a flare-up of a common herpes virus we see in cats. Diagnosis will dictate the treatment which might be a steroid ointment or an anti-viral medication such as famciclovir. I hope you can have her seen soon & thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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