Since pet tears contain porphyrin, which contains iron cells (produced by the rupture of red blood cells), tear stains will occur if they stay in the hair for too long; especially for cats with light-colored coats such as Bichons, Samoyeds, and Persians. The varieties are more obvious.

· Allergies

· Tear duct abnormalities

· Bacterial infection

· Drug side effects

· Eye infection/inflammation

· Congenital lacrimal gland occlusion

· There is a blockage in the tear duct

· Glaucoma (or other eye diseases)

· Eyes are stimulated by external sources (such as second-hand smoke)

· Eye hair is too long (even grows into the eyes)

· Brachycephalic dog syndrome (flat face, such as mynah, French Bulldog, Pekingese)

· Ear infection (because the facial nerve intersects the auditory and facial nerves, pain deep in the ear canal can extend to around the eyes)

Note: Porphyrins are also excreted through feces and saliva

Solutions for tear stains:

· Clean up the long/caked/dyed hair around the eyes, and rub some coconut oil on the tear stains to fight inflammation.

· Baby shampoo. If the skin over the tear stain becomes infected, dilute a non-eye-irritating baby shampoo twice daily until the infection clears.

· Colloidal silver. It contains antibacterial ingredients, which can effectively reduce the chance of infection and dermatitis in the corners of your pet's eyes. It is safe for external use; use a cotton swab dipped in some colloidal silver to wipe away tear stains.

· Ensure normal lacrimal glands. 1% fluorescein solution can be dropped into the conjunctival sac. If the liquid appears in the nostril within 10 seconds, it proves that the lacrimal gland is normal, otherwise it is blocked.

· Ear mite infection. (Portal: Ear mites haven’t been cured yet because you didn’t read this article)

· Eye problems. (Portal: Correct understanding of cat eye diseases)

If there are too many tear stains and the time is too long, it is likely that a large number of bacteria have been produced, which will cause diseases to the eyes. It is recommended that you go to the hospital in this case and follow the doctor's diagnosis and treatment plan.

How to prevent and keep your face clean:

· Frequently wipe your pet’s face with warm water

· Feed high-quality, balanced pet food. Food that is not easy to digest will put pressure on the detoxification organs.

· Drink filtered water, cool boiled water, do not drink tap water directly (tap water contains high levels of minerals/chlorine and fluorine, and long-term drinking is toxic to pets).

· Use stainless steel, porcelain or glass instead of plastic tableware. Long-term use of plastic tableware can cause bacteria that can irritate your pet’s face.

· Use Vaseline (a little bit) with a toothbrush to comb the eye hair, which can allow tears to evaporate automatically before contaminating the hair, and is safe and non-irritating. (It can also be used if the tear stains are severe, but it will need to be reduced for several months)

Many tear stain removal products on the market may not be suitable for your pet. It is recommended to discuss with your doctor before using them. In addition, during the wiping process, if your pet (especially a cat) is resistant to it, it is best to ask a friend to help. You restrain it to avoid hurting yourself.