Treatment for a Swollen Eye in a Dog

Dealing with a dog's swollen eye

Before treating a swollen eye in your dog, you must determine the cause. If you believe it was caused by an allergic condition or debris, you may be able to treat it successfully yourself with an over-the-counter eye wash or eye drops specifically for dogs. However, some eye conditions can be very serious and require veterinary care and possibly surgery.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis--which may be caused by viral or bacterial infection, parasites, corneal disease, eyelid infections, foreign matter or tear duct disorders--will appear red and swollen with a discharge. Treatment can take the form of antibacterial ointments and sometimes anti-inflammatory medications.

Scleritis

Scleritis is an inflammation of the outer cover of the eye, where the eye is red and swollen. It may be caused by Toxoplasmosis or Lyme disease. It is treated with anti-inflammatory medications such as corticosteroids or an injection of prednisone.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis appears with red and swollen eyelids, sensitivity to light, itching, abscesses, spasms of the eyelids and a thick discharge. Treatments include flushing out the eyes, antibacterial ointment or--in some cases--prednisone.

Eyelid Tumors

Eyelid tumors, which in most cases are benign, usually require eye surgery. If the tumors are small, they may also be treated non-surgically, such as by freezing them.

Veterinary Care

If your dog's eye condition does not respond promptly to home treatment, it is important to have it diagnosed by a veterinarian. Problems left untreated, or not properly treated, can lead to loss of vision.

References

• Veterinary Vision: What is a Veterinary Ophthalmologist?
• I Love India: Eye Diseases in Dogs
• Pedigreed Pups: Eye Problems In Dogs

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish