Blocked tear duct in pets - Cause, diagnosis and treatment

The tear duct plays an important role in draining tears from the eye to the nasal cavity. When this duct becomes blocked, tears cannot drain properly, resulting in excessive tearing ('epiphora'). This occurs more often in dogs, but cats can also have a blocked tear duct.

In this article, we discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of a blocked tear duct in pets.

What is a blocked tear duct?

A blockage of the tear duct prevents the normal drainage of tears, causing tears to run down the face.

Causes of a blocked tear duct

• Congenital abnormalities, especially in short-nosed breeds
• Inflammation or infection of the tear ducts
• Trauma or scar tissue formation
• A foreign object in the tear ducts
• Tumors putting pressure on the tear duct
• In rabbits: excessive tooth growth

Symptoms of a blocked tear duct

• Excessive tearing (epiphora)
• Brown or reddish discoloration of the fur around the eyes
• Skin irritation due to constant moisture
• Possible swelling or pus in the case of infection

Diagnosis of a blocked tear duct

The diagnosis is made with a tear duct patency test. In this test, fluorescein is applied to the eye and it is checked whether it emerges through the nose. In addition, flushing of the tear duct under sedation can be performed to identify or resolve a blockage.

Treatment of a blocked tear duct

• Flushing the tear duct under sedation to restore the passage.
• Antibiotic eye drops in the case of infection.
• Surgery for persistent blockages or congenital abnormalities.
• Treating underlying causes such as tumors or trauma.

Prognosis

The prognosis depends on the cause. Many blockages can be successfully treated by flushing, but with anatomical abnormalities, the problem can recur.

Want to know more?

Read more about ophthalmology at Nesto. Our veterinarians have experience in diagnosing and treating tear duct problems in dogs and cats.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is a blocked tear duct painful for my pet?

Not directly, but it causes irritation and can lead to skin problems around the eyes.

How do I know if my dog or cat has a blocked tear duct?

Excessive tearing and discoloration of the fur around the eyes are typical symptoms.

Can a blocked tear duct heal on its own?

Sometimes, but treatment such as flushing is often necessary.

Is a blocked tear duct more common in certain breeds?

Yes, especially in short-nosed breeds such as Pugs and Persians.

What happens if a blocked tear duct is not treated?

It can lead to chronic irritation, skin inflammation, and sometimes infections in the tear ducts.