Eye Problems for Dogs
Seeing your dog with a corneal ulcer or cherry eye can be extremely alarming. Both eye problems can be somewhat disfiguring to your dog, but for most dogs, they're not life-threatening and can easily be treated. If you recognize any of these signs or symptoms in your dog, consult with your veterinarian about what would be the best course of treatment for your pet.
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Types
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A corneal ulcer is a loss of the outermost layer of corneal cells. Damage to these corneal cells, also called the corneal epithelium, can result in exposure of and damage to the corneal collagen. This can cause severe pain and inflammation in dogs if not properly treated.
Cherry eye is a condition that occurs when the third eyelid, known as the nictitating membrane, falls down and becomes visible. This membrane is typically invisible, but it appears as a big red blob in the corner of the eye when it falls.
Causes
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Corneal ulcers, otherwise known as ulcerative keratitis, are most commonly the result of an injury or other type of event that could result in the weakening of the cornea, such as dry eye. Ingrown eyelashes, smoke and chemicals can cause cell loss, leading to corneal ulcers. Some breeds like boxers have a genetic abnormality in the way their corneal cells are attached to the basement membrane of the eye.
The exact cause of cherry eye is unknown, but it's believed to be related to genetic factors. Genetic abnormalities may lead to weak connective tissue surrounding the third eyelid. -
Symptoms
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Symptoms of a corneal ulcer are increased tear production, a cloudy cornea, squinting and rubbing at the eye. Mucus may also drain from the eye and you may not be able to see the eye because the third eyelid is covering it. Corneal ulcers can also cause the conjunctiva (the pink lining of the eyelids) to become red and inflamed.
Cherry eye may cause your dog to paw at his or her eye and the conjunctiva may also be inflamed. The third eyelid may look like a red or pink oval in the corner of the eye, and watery discharge may leak from the eye.
Treatment
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Corneal ulcers are typically treated with antibiotic eye drops to prevent any infections. Veterinarians use Elizabethan collars to keep the dog from scratching at or further irritating a corneal ulcer. Surgery may be used to treat severe lesions by applying a contact lens or sewing the eyelid closed to allow the injury to heal.
In the case of cherry eye, surgery is the most effective and common form of treatment. The fallen third eyelid is surgically put back into its normal position.
Prevention and Risk Factors
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Any breed of dog can be affected by corneal ulcers. Breeds with prominent or protruding eyes like boxers may be at a higher risk due to suspected genetic abnormalities. Older dogs tend to heal more slowly, which can cause ulcers to heal more slowly. Try to keep anything other than water and saline solution out of your dog's eyes. Do not try to remove any foreign bodies.
Cherry eye is most commonly found in younger dogs between the ages of six weeks and two years. The cocker spaniel, miniature poodle and beagle are all breeds that are at higher risk of getting cherry eye. The English bulldog, blood hound and Lhaso apso are also high-risk breeds. Because the cause of cherry eye is unknown, there are no proven methods of prevention.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit miramb: stock.xchng
