Many dogs and cats have tear stains.They are characterized by a brown color around the pet's eyes, muzzle, and paws.Pet owners can't get rid of tear stains because of the negative consequences.Tear stains can cause irritation to the skin and make your pet uncomfortable.If you want to remove tear stains, you can wipe them away with water or products.Changes to your pet's lifestyle can help prevent new stains.All products you use should be approved by the FDA.
Step 1: Use a damp cloth to wipe your animal's face.
If you see tear drops or dripping eyes, wipe them away with a damp cloth and tap water.Small tear stains can be treated quickly if caught early.Rub the fur around your pet's eyes with a damp cloth.If the tear drops are fresh, there is no need to add soap.When cleaning around your pet's eyes, be very gentle.You don't want to get water or the edges of the cloth in their eyes, as this can cause irritation.
Step 2: Discuss a tear stain removal with your vet.
Set-in tear stains can be addressed with tear stain removers.These aren't necessarily a medical concern, but they can be unattractive.Dog and cat eye irritation can be caused by crusty stains.Before purchasing a product for your pet at a pet store or online, you should talk to your vet about a safe tear stain removal.It is possible that natural products are safer on your cat or dog.A lot of synthetic chemicals can be found in a "natural" product.This is why a vet is important.You probably don't need a prescription for a tear stain removal.Your vet should be able to give you a recommendation for a commercial product.The product may be in stock at your vet's office.Some over-the-counter products are not safe for all dogs.Small dogs may be adversely affected by over-the-counter products.If your pet has an underlying health issue that could affect how the product is applied, go over the instructions with your vet.
Step 3: You can compare recommended stain removers.
You should read reviews of any products that promise to remove tear stains.You can read online reviews.You can use a search engine to type in the names of products.Some products are not FDA approved and have a bad reputation for causing eye irritation and other health problems in cats and dogs.Only browse and compare products recommended by your vet.
Step 4: Discuss antibiotics with your vet.
The excessive production of porphyrins can cause tear stains in dogs.This can be corrected via antibiotics.Talk to your vet if your dog is prone to excessive tear stains.Choose a product with veterinary supervision in mind.Antibiotics are only available from your doctor.Your vet can't prescribe an antibiotic without examining your pet.Antibiotics have not been strongly linked to reducing tear stains in dogs, but some people have had success with certain products.Don't use one of these products if your vet suggests it.It will clear tear stains on your dog.If antibiotics don't work, you may have to use other methods.
Step 5: The stains need to be removed by a vet or groomer.
If the stains are very bad, you may be able to get them removed from the vet's office.Technical staff on your vet's team can remove tear stains.If you want to ask about removing tear stains, you can take your dog or cat to the groomer.If you want to remove existing stains, ask the vet tech to trim the hair around your pet's eyes, where tear stains and eye crusts tend to accumulate.
Step 6: You can switch your food bowls.
Small cracks in plastic food bowls can cause eye irritation.If you use plastic bowls, it's a good idea to switch them out for glass or porcelain.There may be less tear stains in your dog or cat.
Step 7: You can use bottled water.
The high mineral content in some tap water can cause irritation in cats and dogs.If your pet is prone to tear stains, it's a good idea to switch from tap water to bottled water.The appearance of tear stains may be changed by this.If you have a Brita filter, use it instead.
Step 8: Longhaired dogs should be trimmed regularly.
Longhaired dogs are prone to tear stains as their fur irritates their eyes.The long hairs around the face can cause irritation and tearing.Regular trims can help combat this problem.It is not advisable to trim your dog's face on your own.It is easy to clip into a dog's face or eyes when trimming near it.Always talk to a professional.
Step 9: Discuss high quality food with your vet.
A high quality diet can prevent health problems.If you can't help with tear stains, talk to your vet about your animal's current diet.They may suggest that you switch from wet to dry food for your cat or dog.The easiest way to avoid stomach irritation is to make switches gradually.If you want to prevent indigestion in your pets, talk to a vet about how to slowly introduce new foods.
Step 10: Make sure your pet does not have an underlying condition.
Tear stains can be benign and less of a problem than you might think.There are a number of underlying medical conditions that can be seen with excessive tear stains.Make an appointment with your vet if you see excessive tear stains.tear stains can be caused by many things, including eye conditions, allergies, and infections.In dogs, eye infections, ingrown eyelashes, and ear infections can all cause tear stains.
Step 11: Don't buy certain products.
Some tear stain removing products are not approved by the FDA.It's important to talk to a vet about tear stain removers.Avoid the following if you can.
Step 12: When cleaning near a pet's eye, be careful.
It's a good idea to have someone restrain your pet while you clean near its eyes.You don't want your pet to see the product in his eyes, that's why these are only made for external use.Keep the far away from your pet's eyes and go as slowly as possible.Call your vet or the number on the tear stain container if you see product in your pet's eyes.
Step 13: Don't use unverified methods.
There are many methods on the market.People often claim that household products work on tear stains.Natural and herbal supplements can help with tear stains.These methods have not been proven effective and may be harmful.