As an excellent pet owner, you need to prioritize keeping your pet healthy and free from eye infections. Eye problems in canines could be viral or bacterial, and unlike humans, pets can not eliminate any foreign substances that come into contact with their eyes. Furthermore, some breeds are extra vulnerable to eye complications than others. Let’s discuss the most rampant eye issues in dogs.
What are the different canine eye infections?
There are several aspects to watch for when it involves canine eye infections. First, you need to inspect if the canine blinks excessively or squints. If the dog is in discomfort and refuses to be touched on the head, there can be an infection. You should also check if the canine is evading light, rubbing its eyes against the floor or furniture, and if there is redness or swelling in the eyes. Here are various dog eye infections and their symptoms to help you monitor your pet’s health and wellness.
1. Conjunctivitis
Pink eye is another name for this disorder. It is one of the most common canine eye issues, and allergic reactions or parasites can likewise cause it. When the membrane inside the eyelids and in front of the eye becomes swollen, this disease occurs. Inflamed red eyes, extreme crying, and a thick yellow-colored or greenish mucus discharge are all indicators of conjunctivitis.
Cleaning the canine’s eyelids and wiping away the discharge with a cotton ball wet with lukewarm water is a home treatment for conjunctivitis. Over-the-counter eye scrubs can be used twice daily or as typically as required. However, to guarantee the most efficient treatment, a pet wellness exam is necessary to get the recommendations of an expert.
2. Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
Dry eye, likewise known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is another usual dog eye infection. This occurs when natural tears aren’t generated to keep the eyes wet, leading to tearing duct injury. If left without treatment, this canine eye infection can advance even more serious issues like corneal ulcers and perhaps loss of sight. This condition is treated with surgical procedures, and eye drops to dampen the eye.
3. Entropion
Another canine eye infection occurs when the eyelids fold inward, making the eyelashes contact the eyes, resulting in discomfort and suffering. Since this health issue is inherited, it’s best to see if the canine is inclined to it. Entropion can be fixed with a simple operation; however, it’s essential to get it done quickly, or it can intensify your dog’s health. Additionally, if you also have a feline pet, you can search for a “cat eye specialist near me” to locate a specialist in your area.
4. Cataracts
This is because of the aging procedure, just like in human beings. Cataracts are primarily inherited, but canine diabetes, infections, and injuries add. The nontransparent or clouded membrane covering the canine’s eye must be checked for, as should the dog’s trouble seeing its way about. Depending on the dog’s reason, intensity, and condition, this might be treated with eye drops or surgery.
A veterinarian can also check for any health conditions in your pet. You can go to a dog and cat dental care clinic for dental services in addition to having your pet’s eyes examined if you want to avoid tartar from forming on their teeth.
5. Glaucoma
This is among the more serious canine eye infections, and if not treated promptly, it can result in blindness. This canine eye condition occurs when fluid builds up inside the eye, increasing pressure and possibly creating more severe damage. As unpleasant as glaucoma is for humans, it is even more painful for dogs.
Glaucoma is usually treated with a surgical procedure to reduce liquid buildup in the eye and save the canine’s vision, discomfort, and pressure medications. Early indications of glaucoma can be confused with conjunctivitis. However, other signs and symptoms consist of a cornea, visible pain in the pet, and bloodshot eyes.
