Why Does My Pet Have Tear Stains?
- Peaches Pet
- Jan 13
- 5 min read
What Are Tear Stains?
You know those reddish-brown marks under your pet’s eyes? Yep, those are tear stains. They’re especially common in some breeds, and while they might seem harmless, they can be a real worry for loving pet parents like you.
Why Are Tear Stains Reddish-Brown?
The reddish-brown color comes from something called porphyrins — a natural pigment found in tears and saliva. When exposed to air, these pigments oxidize, leaving behind those telltale stains.
What Causes Tear Stains?
Tear stains are more common than you’d think, and there are a few usual suspects behind those reddish-brown marks under your fur baby’s eyes. Let’s chat about them:
Excessive Tearing
Sometimes, it’s just how your pet is built! Some breeds are more prone to watery eyes because of their genetics or the shape of their eyes. Think of it as their adorable, slightly leaky way of expressing emotion. Their tears spill over instead of draining neatly—no big deal, but it can lead to stains.
Allergies, Infections, or Blocked Tear Ducts
Does your pup have itchy eyes or keep pawing at their face? Allergies to pollen, dust, or certain foods can cause extra tearing. Eye infections or blocked tear ducts can also be culprits, leaving your pet with watery eyes that spill over. These can make them uncomfortable, so it’s always a good idea to have a quick check with your vet if you notice anything out of the ordinary.
Diet or Water Quality
What your pet eats and drinks really matters—just like us! Minerals in tap water or a less-than-stellar diet might add to those tear stains. Switching to purified water and ensuring your fur baby gets nutritious, high-quality food can help.
Yeast or Bacteria
Here’s the not-so-fun part: the moist area around your pet’s eyes is prime real estate for yeast and bacteria. If the area isn’t cleaned regularly, these pesky organisms can settle in and cause discoloration (and some unwanted smells too).
Specific Breeds
Tear stains are super common in breeds with shallow eye sockets or light-colored fur. Some of the usual suspects include:
Bulldogs, Boxers, Pugs, and Pekingese.
Samoyeds, Maltese, and Shih Tzus.
All types of Poodles — Toy, Miniature, and Standard.
Bichon Frises, Boston Terriers, and more!
Even mixed breeds can get tear stains, especially if they inherit those adorable yet tear-prone features.
Why Should You Be Concerned About Tear Stains?
While tear stains might just look like a cosmetic issue, they can sometimes signal something more serious, like:
An eye infection or irritation.
Allergies that could need a vet’s attention.
Discomfort from matted fur rubbing against their sensitive skin.
It’s always a good idea to take a closer look if tear stains become frequent or intense.
How to Prevent Tear Stains
The best solution is prevention! Here are a few easy ways to keep tear stains at bay:
Upgrade Their Diet
Just like us, what your pet eats and drinks has a huge impact on their overall health. Opt for high-quality pet food with natural ingredients and balanced nutrition—it’s like giving their body premium fuel. And don’t forget about their water! Switching to purified or distilled water can help reduce mineral buildup that contributes to tear stains. It’s a small change with big results!
Regular Grooming
Those adorable little tufts of fur near your pet’s eyes might look cute, but they can also trap moisture and irritate their skin. A quick trim around the eye area during grooming sessions can make all the difference. Less fur means less chance for tears to stick around and stain.
Daily Cleaning
A little daily TLC goes a long way. Use a soft, damp, pet-safe cloth to gently wipe the area around your pet’s eyes 2-3 times a day. This helps remove tear buildup and keeps the area clean and dry. Bonus tip: always pat the area dry afterward—yeast and bacteria love moisture, so let’s not give them the chance to move in.
Address Allergies or Infection
If your fur baby’s eyes seem extra watery or irritated, don’t wait—schedule a vet visit. Excessive tearing could be a sign of allergies, infections, or other underlying issues that need attention. Catching the root cause early can save both you and your pet a lot of trouble.
Switch to Metal Bowls
Plastic bowls can harbor bacteria and cause skin irritation, especially around your pet’s face. Metal bowls are a much cleaner option—and they’re durable too! This simple switch can reduce the risk of bacteria aggravating tear stains.
How to Remove Tear Stains
If your pet already has tear stains, don’t stress—there’s plenty you can do to reduce their appearance. With a little care and patience, you can give your furry friend a fresh, clean look. Here’s how:
Pet-Safe Wipes or Solutions
When it comes to cleaning tear stains, not all wipes are created equal. Look for products specifically designed for pets, as these are gentle on their sensitive skin. Use the wipe to gently clean the stained area, always moving away from the eye to avoid irritation. After wiping, don’t forget to pat the area dry—it’s a small step that prevents moisture from inviting yeast or bacteria.
Brush or Trim Stained Fur
For fur that’s already stained, a soft-bristled brush can work wonders. Gently brush the area to loosen and remove any dried residue. If the stains are persistent or the fur is matted, consider trimming the affected areas. It’s like hitting the reset button for your pet’s coat and can make ongoing maintenance much easier.
Tear Stain Supplements
Sometimes the best way to tackle tear stains is from the inside out. Tear stain supplements are formulated to address the root causes of excessive tearing, such as allergies or imbalances in their diet. These supplements often include ingredients like Omega-3s, antioxidants, and vitamins to support overall eye health. While they won’t work overnight, consistent use can lead to noticeable improvements over time.
A Supplement We Love:
Show Me Tear Stain Supplement (For Dogs and Cats)
Packed with amazing ingredients - Fish oil / Bilberry Extract / Barbary Wolfberry Fruit Extract / Cassia Seed Extract / B Carotene / Vit B1 / Vit B2 / Vit B6 / Vit B12 / Vit E / Free Lutein / Lycopene; this supplement supports eye health, reduces irritation, and promotes a shiny coat.
Key Benefits:
Eye Health: By reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and irritation, they address some causes of tear staining.
Skin and Coat Health: Several ingredients improve skin integrity and hydration, which can prevent tear staining caused by skin irritation or moisture retention.
Overall Well-being: The supplement boosts immunity, metabolism, and cellular health, contributing to reduced tear stain occurrences over time.
While the ingredients support overall eye and skin health, they cannot resolve all tear stain issues permanently. For best results, supplements should be paired with regular grooming and proper eye care.
Tear stains may be common, but with a little care and consistency, you can keep your pet’s eyes looking fresh and healthy. And remember, if those stains stick around or worsen, don’t hesitate to check in with your vet.
Struggling with tear stains? We’re here to help! Drop us a WhatsApp message at +65 88188633, and let’s chat about how we can keep your fur baby’s eyes sparkling.
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