Common Eye Problems in Dogs & Treatment

Common Eye Problems in Dogs

Our four-legged companions rely heavily on their senses, with vision playing a crucial role in their daily lives. Just like humans, dogs can experience a range of eye problems that can impact their overall wellbeing. In this blog, we'll delve into some of the most common issues that affect dogs' eyes, helping you recognize the signs, understand the causes, and provide appropriate care for your furry friend.

Cataracts

Cataract in Dogs is usually hereditary in nature but can also be caused because of injury. A diabetic dog is more prone to cataracts. Cataract can be in static for or it might increase with time. If cataract covers less than 30 % of lens than it might not cause any harm but once it spread to more than 60 % of lens than dog become visually impaired. Cataract usually progresses because of many factors like breed of dog, type of cataract, age or presence of diseases like diabetes. 

Breeds which are prone to hereditary cataracts are Labrador retriever, Cocker Spaniel, Poodle, Welsh springer spaniel, Boston terrier etc. 

Treatment

If cataract id suspected in dog than it must be taken to a Veterinarian for Eye examination and understanding the level of vision impairment. Cataract can be removed by a surgical procedure called Phacoemulsification which is similar to what is performed in humans. In this process the cloudy part is removed from the eye. This process is usually performed when dog finds difficulty in vision. 

Dry eye

Also known as Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), in this condition the tear gland in inflamed and is unable to produce the normal amount of tears thus making eyes dry.  Because of less or not tear the eyes are not lubricated and becomes unhealthy. Dry eye can be caused because of many reasons but mainly it is associated with disorder of immune system.  In certain breeds this condition can be very painful and if left unattended than it can worsen. In order to diagnose these condition early stages, regular eye examination is important. 

Symptoms:-

• Discharge around eye
• Rubbing or pawing at the eye and face
• Frequent eye infections 
• Blinking of eye
• Red eye

Breeds at Risk:-

Cocker Spaniel, Shih tzu, Pug, English bull dog, Yorkshire terrier etc.

Treatment

If any of the symptoms are suspected than please contact local veterinarian for confirmatory diagnosis. Once diagnosed the veterinarian usually recommend a good eye drop to keep the eyes moist and lubricated. Vet might recommend antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs in case of any infection. 

Apart from medication owner should also clean the eyes regularly with cotton swabs or soft and clean wipes. 

Glaucoma

Glaucoma in dogs is caused because of insufficient drainage of fluid from the eye. Because of this a pressure is build up inside the eye that leads to damages in optic nerve and retina. Glaucoma is usually inherited called as primary glaucoma or it may be caused because of another eye conditions like cataracts or renal detachments.

Symptoms:-

• Change in pupil size 
• Pupil become unresponsive to light
• Sticky discharge from eye
• Squinting and blinking of eye

Breeds at risk :-

Beagle, Cocker spaniel, Pug , Labrador Retriever, Siberian husky, Boston Terrier, Basset Hound etc.

Treatment

If symptoms are detected than dog must be taken to veterinarian for confirmatory diagnosis. Vet will identify whether the condition is because of primary or secondary glaucoma and accordingly medication is given. Medications are usually given to reduce the pressure inside the eye. If condition extreme than Vet might also suggest for laser therapy or surgery. 

Conjunctivitis/eye infection

Conjunctivitis can be caused because of virus or bacteria. In this condition pink area under the eyelid becomes inflamed and infected. It might be noninfectious in nature but during treatment the infected dog must be kept away from other pets at home. 

Symptoms:-

• Discharge from eye
• Red and inflamed eye
• Blinking or squinting of eye
• Pawing or rubbing of eye
• Swollen eyelid which leads to partial closure of eyes

Breeds at risk:-

Maltese, Shih Tzu, Poodles, Lhasa apso and other breeds with long hairs

Treatment

Upon identification of any of the symptoms a dog must be taken to a veterinarian for confirmation. Conjunctivitis might be non-infectious and causes irritation to the dog. Depending upon the severity of condition Veterinarian might recommend Anti-inflammatory drug or Antibiotic. Regular cleaning and washing of eye is also very important for fast recovery.