Yellow-Green Eye Discharge in Dogs
Many dog owners notice a little eye residue in their pup's eyes in the morning. Like humans, dogs can wake up with eye discharge or sleepers in their eyes, and as long as the discharge is not excessive and remains clear-colored, it is a perfectly normal occurrence. Brushing away the discharge with a damp cloth will take care of the mess. Yet, when the discharge is yellow or green, it can signal a bigger problem.
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Conjunctivitis
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Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the tissue that coats the eye. Often, the eye will appear reddened or bloodshot, and leak a yellow-green fluid. This infection can stem from several causes, such as canine distemper, parasitic infection, corneal disease or something as simple as getting a foreign body, such as a speck of dirt or sand, lodged in the eye.
Trauma
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When trauma to the eye occurs, it is often not immediately apparent. Yet when a yellow and green discharge starts to develop, that is when many dog owners recognize there is a problem. Trauma can include any substance that injures the eyes. Common types include cat scratches, thorns, airborne irritants and branches and twigs.
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Glaucoma
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Glaucoma is commonly found in older dogs and is caused by a high amount of pressure buildup behind the eye. Left untreated, it can result in blindness. Often the eye will ooze a filmy or cloudy liquid that signals a problem. Some breeds are more prone to this condition than others so it's best to ask your vet if your dog is susceptible to this disease.
Canine Adenovirus
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Also known as infectious canine hepatitis, canine adenovirus is a serious disease that may result in liver damage or failure, and even death. One of the first signs of the disease may present itself as a cloudy film or discharge from the eyes. This disease is very contagious, but is preventable through a typical course of vaccinations.
Sinus Infection
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Sinus infections are quite common in dogs and can develop from a common cold. Like humans, dogs will exhibit a runny nose, cough, lethargy and oozing eyes. The sinus cavities may begin to leak out mucus through the dog's eyes when the buildup becomes too great. Antibiotics will quickly clear up the infection. Since dogs with seasonal allergies may develop frequent sinus infections, dog owners should consult their veterinarian about treating their dog for seasonal allergies.
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References
- Photo Credit german shepherd dog image by Lisa Batty from Fotolia.com
