Pinkish Eye Discharge in Cats

Discharge of the eye is not uncommon in cats. This discharge might be pinkish to yellow or green, and it can develop suddenly or gradually over time.

Eye discharge is a symptom of eye disease in cats. A discharge that has a pinkish tinge might have a small amount of blood in the discharge. The more discharge present, the more advanced the eye disease might be.

A gray or yellowish discharge that is ropy might also occur.

The causes of a pinkish eye discharge in cats can include obstruction of a tear duct, excessive tear production, keratitis (inflammation of the cornea), conjunctivitis, blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), corneal ulcers, glaucoma, lens displacement, and uveitis (inflammation of the iris and blood vessels in the eye).

To diagnose the condition associated with a pinkish eye discharge in cats, the veterinarian might perform a physical examination. Diagnosis might involve a culture of the discharge in the eye, complete blood work, flushing of the tear ducts, X-rays and possibly an MRI or CT scan.

Treatment depends on the condition that is causing the discharge. It is important to never use human eye drops on a cat at home.