If your Floof's eyes constantly look like they’ve been sobbing through a telenovela, welcome to the glamorous world of brachycephalic cat parenting. Those big, soulful peepers? Gorgeous. But they leak. A lot. And those leaks can turn into rusty tear stains, crusty build-up, and even infections if left unchecked.
So, how do you clean your cat’s eyes without turning it into a daily wrestling match? I got you... and your Floofs’s eyeballs covered.
Why Flat-Faced Cats Get Tear Stains
It’s not your fault. It’s physics.
Flat-faced (brachycephalic) cats like Persians, Himalayans, and Exotic Shorthairs have short tear ducts, shallow eye sockets, and noses smooshed in like tiny muffins. The tears have nowhere to go… so they overflow.
Add in dust, fur, and your cat sleeping face-first on your laundry, and boom: stains, goop, and that crusty little eye booger no one talks about but everyone sees.
How Often Should You Clean your Floof's Eyes?
-
Daily: Yep. Every. Dang. Day. Especially if your cat has light fur.
-
After naps or meals: Eye gunk loves to accumulate when they’re relaxed or sleepy.
-
Any time you notice build-up, stains, or squinting
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Cat’s Eyes Like a Gentle Spa Tech
What You Need:
-
Soft eye wipes - such as EYE BOOGER WIPES
-
A gentle solution - It comes pre applied to our EYE BOOGER WIPES
-
Calm vibes, good lighting, and probably a treat bribe
Recommended Products:
-
We said we got you covered (shameless plug) EYE BOOGER WIPES
How-To:
-
Wash your hands first. (you wash your hands before touching your face and eye area right? ) Then situate the Floof.
-
Gently hold your Floofs Smooshy head (or distract them with a treat, cuddle, or your soul).
-
Grab your pre-moistened EYE BOOGER WIPE
-
Wipe from the inner corner of the eye outward. Avoid direct contact with the eyeball! Never reuse the same wipe for both eyes - that’s how infections spread, y’all.
-
Reward immediately! Praise, petting, snacks , whatever your fluff lord desires.
When It’s More Than Just Stains
Sometimes goopy eyes = something serious. Call your vet if:
-
The gunk is green, yellow, or super thick
-
One eye is always worse than the other
-
Your cat’s pawing, squinting, or avoiding light
-
You see swelling or redness
Extra Tips for Tear-Free Living
-
Use a stainless steel or ceramic water bowl - plastic can harbor bacteria that worsen eye gunk - Check out our ceramic bowls
-
Keep fur trimmed around the eyes (by a pro, unless you’re a magician)- But seriously leave this one to the pros!!!
-
Use air purifiers to reduce dust and dander
- Regularly clean bedding and favorite nap spots
Not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Eye Discharge can be a symptom of underlying medical conditions. Always check with a vet if something seems off.