Just like humans, dogs can develop vision problems as they age. Sometimes, these issues are breed-specific. Other times, they can from bacterial infections. As a responsible pet owner, you should do everything in your power to understand common eye problems in dogs, so you can keep your furry friend safe and healthy. If you ever have questions or concerns about your dog’s health profile, talk to your vet.
1. Cataracts and Lenticular Sclerosis
I remember arguing some time ago that cataracts affect only humans and has nothing to do with dogs; To my surprise, while visiting the vet weeks later, I saw a Labrador Retriever with this exact eye condition. This led me to want to know more.
The characteristics of both conditions include cloudy eyes and vision loss, especially at night. Lenticular sclerosis is a change in the eye that comes with old age. The lens thickens, and there’s no need for treatment.
Cataracts are changes in the eye and can affect vision. As this problem advances, the eyeball becomes sparkly and opaque. In the long run, this can lead to blindness in dogs.
2. Pink Eye or Conjunctivitis
Are your dog’s eyes suddenly pinkish in color on one side? This could be pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis. Symptoms of this eye problem include inflammation, red eyes, and gooey discharge.
When your dog has pink eye, it has a bacterial infection or is reacting to something like cigarette smoke. This condition is highly contagious and can be transmitted in public places, like dog parks. Whatever the case may be, take your dog to the vet to address this issue quickly.
3. Dry Eyes or Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
Your dog has dry eyes if his tear ducts don’t produce enough lubrication. When this happens, his eyes will find it difficult to get rid of dirt and dust naturally, leading to irritation of the eyes. Some signs of this eye problem include squinting, eye redness, and excessive blinking. Flat-faced dogs, such as Pugs and Shih Tzus, are more likely to experience this health condition than narrow-snouted dogs.
4. Corneal Damage
Like humans, something like dirt or grass can find its way into your dog’s eyes. If this happens, your dog will scratch its eyes using its paws to relieve the irritation, which could damage the cornea. Signs of corneal damage include excessive tearing and eye redness.
Visit your vet immediately once you suspect that your pooch has this eye condition. Your vet will evaluate the extent of the injury to prevent possible infection.
5. Glaucoma
Dogs can have glaucoma if there is an increase in pressure in their eyes resulting from a drainage issue.
The early signs of this eye problem include redness of the eye and eye pain. As this disease progresses, your dog’s eye may become larger, and the cornea can be cloudy due to stretching.
With medication, you can treat early glaucoma. However, if the medication doesn’t control the pressure in the eye, your vet may advise enucleation, which is the unfortunate removal of your dog’s eyes.
6. Tear Stains
Have you noticed reddish tears coming from your dog’s eyes? In the eyes of most dogs, there are small holes that drain away tears, passing them through the throat. However, some dogs fail to drain these tears, causing a spill out of the eye that in turn forms a reddish-brown stripe down the dog’s face.
This problem can worsen when excess hair growth forms around the dog’s eyes or the eye sockets become shallow. You can use a dog tear stain remover or stain wipes.
7. Eyelid Mass
Notice a lump on your dog’s eyelid? Don’t take this lightly; please see a veterinarian. After diagnosis, he or she will determine the best treatment to administer.
The major causes of eyelid mass include benign tumors or cysts. However, in some cases, this lump could be cancerous.
Symptoms of Eye Problems in Dogs
Dogs’ vision problems start with a few signs that progress over time. Therefore, it is crucial to look out for possible signs of eye infection. These include:
- Inflamed eyes
- Cloudy eyes
- Irritation in the eyes
- Anxiety in new places
- Bumping into objects
- Bulgy and swollen eyes
- Squinting
- Visible third eyelid
How to Treat Your Dog’s Eye Infection
Early detection and treatment of eye infections in dogs are essential. Ensure you visit a vet immediately if you notice any of the signs. With proper examination, your vet will prescribe the right treatment for your dog.
Some conditions (like “cherry eye”) may require serious treatment like surgery, while antibiotics and other medications can also help. During the treatment, ensure you keep your dog’s eyes clean enough and avoid using any outside chemicals on them.
Another way to treat your doggie’s eye infection is using the cone, which reduces the chance of your pooch scratching its eye.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eye Problems in Dogs
While researching eye problems in dogs, you may wonder:
Can Dogs Use Human Eye Drops?
Don’t give human eye drops to your dog. Dogs’ eyes are different from humans’, which is why some ingredients in human eye drops aren’t safe for dogs. These ingredients can result in low blood pressure and other life-threatening conditions. Be sure to consult your vet about eye drops designed for dogs.
What Indicates Eye Problems in Dogs?
You can detect eye problems in your pooch once you notice some abnormal signs. Bumping into objects frequently, squinting, and eye irritation are signs of eye problems. Once you notice these abnormalities, your dog should visit a vet.
