Eye Infections for Canines: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

As a dog owner, you need to prioritize keeping your canine healthy and free from eye infections. Eye issues in pets might be viral or bacterial, and unlike human beings, canines can not eliminate any foreign materials that come into contact with their eyes. Furthermore, some breeds are more vulnerable to eye issues than others. Let’s review the most prevalent eye problems in dogs.

What are the different dog eye infections?

There are several factors to watch for when it concerns canine eye infections. First, you must examine if the pet blinks a lot or squints. If the dog is in discomfort and declines to be touched on the head, there is possibly an infection. You should also check if the dog is evading light, rubbing its eyes against the floor or furniture, and if there is redness or bulging in the eyes. Below are numerous canine eye infections and their symptoms to help you check your animal’s wellness.

1. Conjunctivitis

Pink eye is another name for this ailment. It is among the most prevalent canine eye issues, and allergic reactions or parasites can additionally cause it. When the membrane inside the eyelids and in front of the eye becomes irritated, this health problem occurs. Sore red eyes, intense crying, and a thick yellowish or green mucus discharge are all symptoms of conjunctivitis.

Cleaning the canine’s eyelids and wiping away the discharge with a cotton ball damp with lukewarm water is a home therapy for conjunctivitis. Over-the-counter eye scrubs can be utilized twice daily or as often as needed. However, to guarantee the most effective treatment, an annual dog veterinary exam is required to solicit the recommendations of a specialist.

2. Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca

Dry eye, likewise referred to as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is another common pet eye infection. This occurs when natural tears aren’t generated to maintain the eyes wet, leading to tearing duct injury. If left untreated, this canine eye infection can progress to even more major problems such as corneal ulcers and even blindness. This problem is treated with surgery, and eye drops to dampen the eye.

3. Cataracts

This results from the aging procedure, just like in human beings. Cataracts are mainly inherited, but canine diabetes, infections, and injuries add. The opaque or clouded membrane covering the dog’s eye should be checked for, as should the canine’s problem seeing its way about. Depending on the pet’s reason, extent, and condition, this may be cured with eye drops or surgery. 

An animal expert can also check for other health conditions like dental problems. For example, in addition to having your pet’s eyes examined, you can search for a “veterinary dentist near me” to employ their services and prevent tartar from forming on their teeth.

4. Entropion

Another type of canine eye infection occurs when the eyelids fold inward, causing the eyelashes to contact the eyes, causing discomfort and suffering. Since this sickness is inherited, it’s best to see if the canine is predisposed to it. Entropion can be repaired with a simple procedure; however, it’s crucial to get it done immediately, or it can aggravate your dog’s health. Again, you should visit the web to learn more about dog ocular services you can get.

5. Glaucoma

This is among the more serious canine eye infections, and if not dealt with promptly, it can lead to loss of sight. This canine eye problem happens when fluid accumulates inside the eye, raising pressure and probably creating more significant damage. As undesirable as glaucoma is for people, it is even more painful for canines.

Glaucoma is usually treated with surgery to reduce liquid buildup in the eye and save the dog’s eyesight, discomfort, and pressure medications. Early indicators of glaucoma can be confused with conjunctivitis. However, other symptoms include a cornea, visible pain in the canine, and bloodshot eyes.