One crucial aspect of your dog’s health that often goes unnoticed until problems arise is their eye health. Dogs can suffer from a variety of eye conditions that can impact their quality of life.
In this blog, we’ll discuss common eye problems in dogs, how to spot them, and what you can do to maintain their eye health.
The most common eye problems in dogs
There are four conditions that make up the majority of eye issues in dogs that we see at our Loganholme vet clinic.
1. Conjunctivitis
Redness, swelling, and discharge from the eyes are tell-tale signs of this condition. Cleaning the affected area and administering any medication prescribed by your vet will quickly get rid of conjunctivitis. Most of the conjunctivitis cases we see are due to allergies or foreign bodies (such as grass seeds) and aren’t usually infectious.
2. Cataracts
Cataracts occur when the lens inside the eye becomes cloudy, obscuring vision. Cataracts can develop very slowly over a number of years or can also occur very quickly. Treatment options recommended by your vet may include medication to prevent inflammation or surgery to remove the affected lens.
3. Canine Glaucoma
This condition is caused by fluid not draining properly, causing increased pressure within the eye. This is painful condition and can lead to blindness if left too long. Early detection is key, with treatment ranging from eye drops to surgery.
4. Ulcers of the Cornea
Corneal ulcers are typically caused by trauma or infection and can be extremely painful for dogs. Because of this pain, if your dog has an ulcer, they will usually keep their eye tightly shut. Treatment involves antibiotics and, in severe cases, surgery.
Warning signs
It’s essential to regularly monitor your dog’s eyes for any signs of trouble. Here are some symptoms to watch out for:
- Persistent scratching or pawing at the eyes
- Whites of the eyes turning red
- Unusual discharge or tearing
- Apparent visual impairment or clumsiness
- Squinting or excessive blinking
Some eye conditions can be an emergency, so if notice any of these warning signs, please contact your vet without delay. It’s important that you don’t use human eye medications – or other pet’s medications – on your pet’s eyes, as they may end up causing more serious issues.
Maintaining your dog’s eye health
Although you can’t entirely prevent your dog from developing eye issues, there are several steps you can take to support their eye health.
- Routine vet check-ups: Regular veterinary visits allow for early detection and treatment of potential eye problems, minimising their impact on your dog’s vision.
- Balanced diet: Providing your dog with a nutritious diet is essential for their overall well-being, including their eye health.
- Safe environment: Ensure your dog’s surroundings are free from hazards that could cause eye injuries.
If you have any worries about your dog’s eye health, the Bryants Road Vet team are here to help. To make an appointment, call us on 07 3801 1744 or use our online booking system.