Blocked Tear Ducts (Dacryocystitis) in Cats
Key takeaways
Dacryocystitis is a rare condition in cats where there is some form of obstruction of the tear ducts.
- This can be caused by a congenital abnormality or a cystic dilation due to underlying conditions that physically obstruct the duct
- Primary symptoms associated with an obstruction of the tear duct include watering from the eyes and moisture/tear staining below the eye
- In more severe cases this can lead to bacterial infection of the eye or surrounding skin
- Diagnostics include an in depth ocular examination using dye, flushing of the duct with saline, cytology, culture, and diagnostic imaging
- Treatment can involve flushing of the eye, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and surgery
- Prognosis with treatment is generally good and recurrence is low if the underlying cause is identified and resolved
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A closer look: Blocked Tear Ducts (Dacryocystitis) in Cats
The tear ducts are glands in the corners of the eyes that secrete tears, which keep the eyeball lubricated and help protect it from infection. In addition to blockage from a foreign object, the tear ducts can be blocked by a physical deformity or a disease process that inhibits proper secretion of tears.
Partial or minor blockages are not a life threatening concern but can lead to chronic dry eye and discomfort. Persistent dry eye can lead to further eye health complications and infection. Complete blockages are more severe as the eye needs to be constantly lubricated to stay healthy and free from damage or infection.
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Risk factors
Dacryocystitis is a very rare condition in cats. Milder forms are primarily a cosmetic concern but long-term blockages can lead to an increased risk of secondary bacterial infections. In some cases the underlying cause of the blockage can be a health risk on its own and therefore veterinary intervention is warranted.
In some cases of blockage, treatment-resistant conjunctivitis can occur as well as other secondary opportunistic infections.
Possible causes
Dacryocystitis can be either congenital or acquired. In the case of a congenital condition, this is caused by an error in the formation of the ducts resulting in an opening not being formed. This is known as imperforate puncta.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms of a blocked tear duct include watering from the eyes, novel drainage from the middle of the lower eyelid, and moisture and tear staining below the eye.
Testing and diagnosis
After a physical examination and medical history, a number of tests can be done to determine dacryocystitis;
- Fluorescein staining of the eye, followed by flushing of the eye duct with saline solution
- In depth ophthalmic examination/examination of the eye under magnification
- X-ray
- Ultrasound
- CT scan
- MRI
- Bacterial culturing
Steps to Recovery
Treatment for dacryocystitis depends on the underlying cause but may include:
- Flushing the eye
- Anti-inflammatories
- Antibiotics
- Surgery
With proper treatment, the prognosis is generally good. Data on surgical intervention is sparse but indicate a favorable recovery with little need for future monitoring.
Prevention
Prevention of congenital blockage is not possible but for acquired blockages, it is best to maintain good eye health in cats. Avoiding irritants near the eye, monitoring for changes in their health, and watching for signs of trauma. Recognizing symptoms early if they do occur can help prevent secondary infections.
Dacryocystitis is not contagious.
Is Blocked Tear Ducts (Dacryocystitis) in Cats common?
Dacryocystitis is very rare in cats.
Typical Treatment
- Antibiotics
- Anti-inflammatories
- Nasolacrimal flushing
- Surgery
