Updated October 11, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: Dacryocystitis is inflammation or infection of the tear drainage system, the small sac and duct that carry tears from the inner corner of the eye into the nose. It usually causes sticky, pus-like discharge from the inner corner of the eye, sometimes with swelling just below it. Common causes include blockages, foreign objects like grass seeds, and infection. Vets treat it by flushing the duct and using medication, and long-standing blockages sometimes need surgery.
Signs
- Thick white, yellow, or green discharge from the inner corner of one eye
- Watery eyes or tear staining
- Swelling or a tender bump below the inner corner of the eye
- Discharge that comes out when gentle pressure is applied near the inner corner
- Redness around the eye
- Signs that return after treatment stops
Causes
- Blockage of the duct from inflammation or debris
- Foreign bodies, especially grass awns and seeds
- Bacterial infection
- Dental disease, since upper tooth roots are close to the duct
- Trauma or bite wounds to the face
- Tumors in the nose or face (less common)
- Birth defects of the duct
When to see a vet
See your vet for eye discharge lasting more than a day or two, swelling near the eye, or any squinting, redness, or cloudiness. Go promptly for a painful, swollen, or cloudy eye, since other eye conditions such as ulcers and glaucoma can be serious.
Diagnosis
- Full eye exam, including a stain to check for corneal ulcers
- A dye test to see whether tears drain into the nose
- Flushing the duct, often under sedation
- A culture of the discharge
- X-rays with contrast dye or a CT scan for recurring or complicated cases
Treatment
- Flushing the duct to clear debris and pus, sometimes repeated
- Antibiotic eye drops or ointment, sometimes combined with oral antibiotics
- Anti-inflammatory medication once the eye surface is confirmed healthy
- Removing foreign bodies
- Treating dental disease if involved
- Temporary tubing in the duct, or surgery, for chronic blockages
Treatment often continues for a couple of weeks after signs improve to prevent relapse.
Safe home care
- Gently clean discharge with a cotton pad or gauze moistened with sterile saline, wiping away from the eye, using a fresh pad each time.
- Apply medication exactly as prescribed, and wash hands before and after.
- Use a cone if your dog rubs or scratches at the eye.
- Keep facial hair trimmed around the eyes (or have a groomer do it).
What to avoid
- Human eye drops, especially redness relievers.
- Leftover steroid eye medications, which can make corneal ulcers much worse.
- Squeezing the swelling hard to express pus.
- Tea, chamomile, or homemade eye washes.
Frequently asked questions
Is dacryocystitis contagious?
Generally no.
Can it come back?
Yes, especially if the underlying cause isn’t resolved. Finishing the full course of treatment helps prevent recurrence.
Can I flush my dog’s tear duct at home?
No. Flushing requires special equipment, and often sedation, at the vet.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Disorders of the nasolacrimal system in dogs
- Gelatt KN (ed.). Veterinary Ophthalmology. Wiley-Blackwell
- Maggs DJ, Miller PE, Ofri R. Slatter’s Fundamentals of Veterinary Ophthalmology. Elsevier
- American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO): Pet owner information
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.