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Why are my dog's eyes rust-stained? Could it be a cat allergy?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 9 months old

My dog started having rust color stained by his eyes and the skin around his eyes seem different after we took in a cat, could he be allergic to the cat?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 5th, 2017

This looks like normal excessive tear production that is often seen in this breed. Allergies would only be suspected if Cooper is also sneezing, pawing at his face or has skin lesions (bumps, scabs, etc). Just wipe the excess tearing daily with a warm damp clean cloth to prevent irritation around the eye. And continue to monitor the eye discharge for any change in color to green or yellow which would indicate an infection is present. As long as the discharge continues to be this color and doesn’t bother Cooper, and the eyes are not red, he should be just fine. Best of luck with your pet Cooper. Take care.

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