LOL! Love the comment about de-gooping the cat. And yes, it certainly does provide an indication of age. The texture on the fur is excellent - and I know from experience that isn't an easy thing to capture. There's something about the way light interacts with cat fur that always makes it a challenge.
I stand my Tiger's goopy eyes--it's a sign of age (I think he's like 16), wisdom, and natural beauty. And the goop has texture too! Look at that contrast between smooth goop and detailed fur.
Besides, this cat wouldn't let me get close enough to him to de-goop him.
Very nice close up cat portrait! There is a bit too much noise (for my taste) in the lower left and right corners. The blueish left , a great color contrast, makes this photo interesting!