WHAT ARE THE CAUSES
Tear stains are most often caused by blocked tear ducts or excessive hair around the eyes. Hair can act as a wick to draw out the tears. Other causes include, but are not limited to:
- An allergy in and around the eye
- An abnormal eyelid
- Inflammation of the eye
Untreated, some of these causes of tear stains can lead to infection and even blindness.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS AND PREVENTION METHODS
Symptoms are easy to determine in a dog or cat with tear stains. The obvious and constant brown stains under their eyes are the primary symptom. However, a dog or cat with overly large eyes (Pekinese, Persian, etc...) is very susceptible to tear stains as well. So even before the stains appear, a good owner would do well to keep the area under the eye clean and free of excessively long hair. Other ways to prevent tear stains include:
- Due diligence – check your pet's eyes regularly
- Don't let your pet hang its head out the car window
- Report to your vet anything you suspect to be an eye infection
WHAT IS THE CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT
Conventional treatments include antibiotics, eye scrubs and other harsh chemicals. Many of the existing chemical-based tear stain cleansers have written directly on the instructions, “DO NOT GET IN YOUR DOG'S OR CAT'S EYES.” This can be a little troublesome for the overactive pet. That is where natural remedies come into the picture.
HOW CAN NATURAL REMEDIES HELP
Natural remedies have become increasingly popular with pet owners in recent years. Products made with natural ingredients like dandelion and eyebright are slowly taking over from the more chemically-based treatments.
- Eyebright – used since the Middle Ages, eyebright is effective in treating sties and other eye inflammatory diseases.
- Dandelions – the antibacterial and antifungal properties of dandelion make a fantastic cleanser.
- German Chamomile – is used as gentle cleanser, perfect for the sensitive area around your pet's eyes.
For more detailed information on tear stains, visit Peteducation.com.

NEW - i-Clenz from PetAlive
PetAlive i-Clenz contains a blend of natural, cleansing ingredients in an herbal tincture and will effectively clean unsightly tear stains around the eyes of cats and dogs as well as improve general eye and visual health. Also helps to control bacterial and fungal growth which can contribute to staining. Great for helping show dogs look their best!
To purchase or read more about i-Clenz..
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