Question:
We have a domestic tiger-breed cat named Mr. Stubbs. He is 1-1/2 years old with an eye condition that oozes a dark, bloody-like mucus and then dries to a crust. This condition interferes with his sight if his eyes are not wiped multiple times a day. The only remedy we've received from our vet are eye drops that are applied to both eyes every day.
Mr. Stubbs acquired this condition when we rescued him. At the same time, we also rescued an old stray and the two cats kept one another company for a few days before we took them to the vet. The older one had a chronic respiratory condition and the same eye condition. In her case, no one could get close enough to clean her eyes daily.
Is there any solution for Mr. Stubbs? He is a joyful kitty and such a pleasure. I'm able to care for him right now, but am going back to work soon and won't be able to attend to him as often.
T.C., Highlands, NJ Nov 14, 2010
Answer:
The dark brown, blood-like secretion in your cat's eyes contains a natural pigment called porphyrin. This becomes more evident when a gland in the eye called the Harderian gland becomes inflamed. It is usually a sign of chronic eye infection, often associated with conjunctivitis that can persist after a herpes virus or upper respiratory tract infection.
Ophthalmic antibiotic ointment from the veterinarian and good nutrition including multivitamin/multimineral and amino acid supplements are called for. Chronic eye infections can lead to corneal ulceration and blindness if not treated.
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