Are “Eye Boogers” Normal in Cats?
I have recently noticed that one of my cat’s eyes has
been accumulating a lot of “gunk” near the tear
duct. Should I be concerned or is this normal? What should
I do to try to minimize the gunk?
Thanks :-)
Michele
San Mateo, CA
In normal circumstances the eyes of cats, dogs, and people continuously produce tears. Tears keep the eye moist and nourish the cornea (the front portion of the eye). The tears drain through a duct into the nose.
Tears are made up of water, mucus, and fat. Over time, some of the water evaporates. This leads to dried conglomerations of mucus and fat adjacent to the eye. These so-called eye boogers develop in all cats, dogs, and people periodically. People simply rub them away from their eyes. Since dogs and cats don’t have hands, their dried mucus and fat builds up.
If your cat’s eyes are not red, uncomfortable, itchy or swollen, I don’t think you should worry. Asymmetrical accumulation of debris usually is related to irregular drainage of tears through the duct on one side. This generally isn’t a cause for concern. You can remove the debris gently with a moistened cotton ball.
Remember, however, that eyes are very sensitive and fragile. If you have noticed itching, swelling, squinting, redness, discomfort, or any other irregularities, the safest option is to have a vet look at your cat.
Photo: Captain Jack’s right eye looks healthy.
You have questions. 
I have a serious question, although it might seem trivial. Due to housing issues, some people have moved into lower rent areas. In our case, the houses are duplexes that are very close together. The people who reside behind us have their back door about 10 feet from our back door. They smoke marijuana almost every day. Since my cats are confined to the house, and the kitchen is the room closest to this other house, this is where they eat.As soon as I smell it, I close all the windows on that side of the house and turn on fans. Can this cause them harm? I am very naive when it comes to this kind of thing, but I am concerned for the safety and well being of my cats. Thank you.
Uh.. No.
Unless your neighbors are blowing pot into your cats face in a confined area and purposely getting your cats high, there should be no issue.
thats pretty interesting lol. thanks for the info. -rick