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We need to look after our pet’s eyes just as we would our own.
A healthy dog or cat’s eye should be clear, bright and free from dirt, discharge and inflammation. The white part of the eye should be white and not red or inflamed.
Symptoms of an eye problem include:
- Red or inflamed eyes or eyelids.
- Squinting
- Something on the surface or in the corners of the eye.
- A cloudy or dull eye surface.
- A ‘third eyelid’ coming across the eye.
- Excessive tearing or unusual discharges.
If your pet is showing any of these symptoms it may be the beginning of the following common conditions.
Common Eye Conditions in Cats & Dogs
Conjunctivitis – Cats & Dogs
This is an inflammation of the membrane that covers both the inner lining of the eyelid and the white of the eye. It may be triggered by allergies. Bacterial, fungal or viral infections are all possible causes. Recurrent or chronic conjunctivitis in cats is often the result of the feline herpes virus.
Corneal Ulceration – Cats & Dogs
This can occur when the surface of the cornea is scratched or damaged, either as the result of a trauma to the surface of the eye from contact with an abrasive substance or foreign body, or more seriously, a bacterial or viral infection.
Cataracts & Glaucoma – Cats & Dogs
Pets, just like humans, can have these serious eye diseases. Cataracts, which cloud the lens inside the eye, are most often seen in elderly pets or in pets with diabetes. A thorough evaluation by your veterinarian is necessary, as surgery is the only treatment. Glaucoma stems from too much pressure being exerted upon the eye’s interior as a result of a decrease in the amount of fluid draining from it. Some breeds are predisposed to certain disorders more than others.
Epiphora or Watery Eyes – Cats & Dogs
If your pet’s eyes constantly “weep”, or if the fur around them appears “stained”, he or she may suffer from a defect in which a malformation of the tear ducts blocks the normal flow of tears. Another cause can be from abnormal hairs that grow on the inside of the eyelid margin causing the eyes to weep as a result of irritation to the eye surface.
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye) – Dogs Only
This occurs when the tear glands cannot provide a dog’s eyes with enough tears. The most common cause is destruction of the lacrimal gland by cells of the immune system, but viral diseases, drug reactions, allergies or injuries can also lead to this condition which, if chronic, can cause loss of vision.
How to Administer Eye Drops and Apply Eye Ointment
If you have any doubt about your pet’s eye health, book online at The Village Vet or call us directly at the Pymble Clinic on 9499 4010 or Killara Hospital on 8350 5678
Sources
- Dr Martine Perkins: The Village Vet (Pymble Vet Clinic and Killara Vet Hospital)
- MSD Animal Health: Information PDF Canine Eye Care; Feline Eye Care.
