Eye Illnesses in Dogs

Man's best friend can develop eye problems, too.

Eye illnesses in dogs can range from mild to severe. Some are caused by irritation while others are just genetically predisposed. If you start to notice your dog's eyes are red and bothering them, you should take them to a veterinarian quickly for a diagnosis. The sooner you can identify the problem, the easier and quicker you can treat your dog.

Red Eye in Dogs

If you notice that your dog's eyes are quite red it can be from a couple different factors. Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the mucous membranes of the eye. It is the most common eye disease in animals. The eye reddens because of an increased flow of blood and you might notice swelling of the membranes. This is usually caused by a virus or parasite. Conjunctivitis is itchy, so you'll notice excessive eye itching by your dog. Eye drops with an antibacterial agent are generally prescribed. Bleeding in the eye can also cause redness. This is usually a sign of trauma and may require surgery to fix.

Inflammation of the Eyelids and Cherry Eye

Inflammation of the eyelid can be caused by dermatitis--an allergy, bacteria, parasites, fungus or trauma. Blepharitis is the most common cause of eyelid inflammation. This is when the edges of the eye become inflamed and crusty and sore because of infection. Warm compresses with an eye-cleansing solution are recommended for relieving discomfort of blepharitis. Cherry eye is when the gland of a dog's third eyelid prolapses. This is treated by surgery.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye illness that can lead to permanent blindness if not treated. Glaucoma is when there is elevated pressure on the eyeball because fluid in the eye cannot flow out because of an obstruction. Symptoms of glaucoma include cloudy and large pupils as well as redness. Treatment involved having a veterinarian immediately relieve the pressure on the eyeball.

Cataracts

Cataracts are when white opacities form in the lenses of the eyes, impairing vision. Certain breeds of dogs are likely to inherit cataracts. Cataracts can be present when the dog is born or they can develop later. The only treatment for cataracts is surgical removal.

Watery Eyes

A dog's eyes can be uncomfortably watery because of entropion. This is when the eyelashes turn inward and irritate the eyeballs.

Corneal Diseases

Corneal diseases can be the most painful for a dog and you'll notice them squinting as a result. The cornea is the clear front part of the eye that lets light in to be focused on the retina. Corneal dystrophy is hereditary and is either present at birth or develops slowly throughout a dog's life. White opacities develop in and around the cornea in the same spots, usually on both eyes. It can lead to corneal swelling and blindness. Corneal ulcers develop from trauma or from entropion. They can be potentially blinding.

References

• Eye Problems in Dogs