Persian cats need a bit more attention than most other breeds, especially when it comes to their eyes. Due to their facial structure, they’re prone to tear staining, which can be particularly noticeable on light-colored fur. Even though the tears might appear clear, they often dry into brownish marks.
There are plenty of ways to clean your cat’s eyes and prevent these stains, but I’ll share the method that has worked well for me.
Eye cleaning should be a gentle, bonding experience with your cat. Since you’re getting up close and personal, be sure to approach the task with care, observing your cat’s comfort level. If they’re hesitant at first, allow them to acclimate slowly—start this routine while they’re kittens, and it will become a normal part of their day.
When holding your cat for eye cleaning, be mindful not to put pressure on their neck. Instead, use just a few fingers to gently support their head, avoiding any accidental choking.
For cleaning, you can use a variety of materials—cotton, a clean tissue, or sterile gauze. There are also specialized pads available. The key is to ensure whatever you use is completely clean.
I use a saline solution purchased from the chemist. Additionally, there are solutions designed specifically to help remove stains from the fur. I use a combination of these methods, depending on the severity of the staining. Personally, I’ve had great success with products from Eye Envy (just sharing my positive experience, not an endorsement).
Once the stains are mostly gone, maintaining that clean look is the next step. There are creams designed to prevent new tears from causing stains. Apply a small amount under the eyes—never in the eyes—keeping in mind that a little goes a long way. The cream also brightens the area slightly but remember, this isn’t makeup, so use sparingly.
To lock in the cream and reduce any shine, follow up with a light dusting of powder. This helps keep the cream in place and ensures a natural appearance. The goal is to leave no trace of the products—your cat should look naturally pristine.
If you have any thoughts or questions, I’d love to hear from you in the comments.
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