Common Eye Conditions in Pets
Even though general practice veterinarians can often handle several animal eye issues, they might refer you to a specialist if you need further attention. Visit your nearby veterinary ophthalmologist if your dog, cat, or other furry pet needs more medical care. This is important if you have issues with eye conditions, including glaucoma, cataracts, or cancer.
What does a veterinary ophthalmologist do?
A veterinary ophthalmologist is a specialist with comprehensive education and experience in eye care and specialized optical surgery for animal species. Ophthalmology veterinary specialists first earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. Then participates in residency training and study.
What are the common eye issues in cats?
Conjunctivitis
Cat conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the thin membrane that lines the eyelids’ inner surface and the eye’s white. The conjunctiva will become red and swollen due to the inflammation, and there may even be some eye-watering or discharge.
Corneal Ulcers
The transparent cornea protects the iris and pupil of the eye. Without it would jeopardize a cat’s sight because it is the portion of the eye that lets light into the eye. Ulcerative keratitis is a painful condition. This occurs when the innermost layers of the cat’s cornea are damaged or injured.
What are the common eye issues in dogs?
Cataract
Canines get cataracts as they age. The eye’s lens develops a hazy layer that prevents light from passing through. When proteins congregate and a cloud-like substance forms, cataracts develop. The lens finally becomes entirely clouded as more and more proteins accumulate. Cataracts can develop gradually over time, rendering your dog completely blind.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma develops when the eye produces fluid more quickly than the body can remove. Additionally, a blockage in the ocular fluid drain might cause it. In addition to visual loss, it can cause damage to the optic nerve and the retina if unattended. It is frequently required to operate to remove the eye because eyes with this disease will have no vision at all.
What signs could I look for if my pet has eye issues?
Several signs indicate that your pet’s eye health is not optimal. Thankfully, you’ll probably be able to distinguish between healthy and diseased eyes. These signs are ones you should be aware of:
- avoidance of light
- frequently wiping their face or eyes
- discharge
- dullness or color
- excessive tears
- keeping their eyes closed
- inflamed eyes
How could vaccination be of help in a pet’s eye health?
Specific diseases that affect our animals can be considerably reduced in severity or altogether avoided through vaccination. Canine distemper is a particular disease in dogs that can damage the eyes. The most common symptoms of canine distemper include sneezing and swollen, sore eyes with a discharge of white or clear mucus (conjunctivitis) and a similar-appearing discharge from the nose (rhinitis). Some dogs may have vision loss or go blind. Click here to learn more about vaccinations.
How does grooming prevent eye infections?
Hair can get in a dog’s eyes, irritating and scratching the corneas. Proper grooming and bathing are essential. The hair can be cut short by the groomer to prevent infection or injury to your dog’s eyes. A professional groomer will thoroughly cut a dog’s hair around its face and eyes. For canine breeds with longer hair, this is particularly vital.
Conclusion
Since so many more eye concerns may be successfully treated by specialists using cutting-edge methods and technology, recommendations to ophthalmologists are now significantly more widespread. Vet ophthalmologists can also aid in screening prospective canine breeding parents for eye conditions.
Antibiotics and eye medications may suffice to treat minor eye conditions, but a surgical operation will be required for more severe or advanced problems. Some of these abnormalities are inherited, while others result from diabetes or cancer.