can cats cry

Cats do have the physical ability to produce tears through their tear ducts, but they do not cry emotional tears like humans do. While cats can express emotions such as sadness, pain, or stress, they do so through behaviors like vocalizations (meowing, howling), body language, and changes in activity rather than shedding tears due to feelings. If a cat's eyes appear watery or tear-streaked, it is usually due to a medical issue like irritation, infection, blocked tear ducts, allergies, or other eye conditions rather than emotional crying. In summary, cats can "cry" in terms of vocal expression of distress or need, but they do not cry tears as an emotional response. Watery eyes in cats most often indicate a physical problem that may require veterinary attention.