Cats can't cry tears like humans do, so it might alarm you to see your cat's eyes effectively leaking liquid. If your cat has eye leakage that seems to go away on its own only to come back awhile later, your cat may have a persistent infection that needs treatment. Read on to learn what causes this problem and what you can do about it.

Herpes

Herpes isn't limited to hurting humans; cats are susceptible to it, too, but in different ways. One of the most common causes for teary eyes in cats is actually a herpes infection. This infection can be acquired at any age, and when your cat's immune system beats it, the symptoms go away. However, the virus is never really killed, and it can remain dormant in the cat's body for years, like shingles can in humans.

In times of stress, or when your cat has another illness, the herpes can flare, causing your cat's symptoms to return. This often includes tearing eyes and a sniffly or leaky nose.

Treatment

Since herpes is a virus, antibiotics won't help to get rid of it. However, your veterinarian can help to reduce the inflammation the virus causes when it flares up, which will help your kitty to feel better. This treatment may include anti-inflammatory topical gel that's applied to your cat's eyes, or medication to help thin and clear the mucus from your cat's nose, if they're congested.

Protection-Vaccination

Since cats who get herpes are stuck with it for life, it's important to vaccinate your cats against this virus. If your cat is already showing symptoms, it's too late to vaccinate them against herpes. However, any other cats in your household should be given the vaccination to prevent them from catching it from your infected cat.

Preventing Further Flare Ups

There's no surefire way to protect your cat against ever having another herpes flare-up, but there are some ways you can reduce the likelihood of it flaring.

Keep your kitty as comfortable and calm as you can; avoid introducing any kind of tension into their lives, like a new pet or loud noises. Take extra time to groom and pet your cat, and play with them regularly so that they can let off a little steam and not get frustrated with boredom. Also, make sure that they're up to date on all their other vaccinations so that they're protected from illnesses that could potentially trigger the herpes, causing even more symptoms.

Herpes isn't fun for anyone, including your cat. Talk to a veterinarian if you think your cat is having herpes symptoms, and if they're not, make sure that they're vaccinated against it.