An eye for trouble

Animals get many of the same eye diseases we do, but since they can’t tell us, it takes some diligence on our part to notice any issues. Here’s what to look out for.

WATCH FOR THE WARNING SIGNS

Pets’ eyes should be clear and bright, so any cloudiness, redness, discharge or squinting could be a concern, says veterinary ophthalmologist Dr Kristin Fischer. In the case of an itchy or painful eye infection, your pet might rub their head against things or paw at their eyes, adds vet Dr Sean McCormack. Other signs include pets bumping into things or not finding their toys. If you see any of these indicators, see your vet. You may be referred to a veterinary ophthalmologist for specialised treatment.

ID THE PROBLEM

Here are the most common eye issues in pets (many of which can occur in humans as well).

+ CONJUNCTIVITIS Called pink eye in people, this is an inflammation of the mucous membrane that partially lines the eyeball and the inside of the eyelid. It’s often caused by allergies (in dogs) or a viral infection such as feline herpesvirus (in cats). Treatment depends on the cause, but may include a topical antibiotic, with or without a steroid, or antiviral medication. With treatment, it typically resolves within a couple of weeks.

+ CHERRY EYE In this condition, also called prolapse of the third eyelid, a gland in the nictitating membrane becomes displaced. It’s important to put it back via surgery, Dr Fischer says, as dogs with cherry eye are especially susceptible to chronic dry eye disease.

+ CATARACTS In dogs, this visionthreatening condition occurs due to a genetic predisposition or as a result of diabetes, trauma, chronic inflammation or degenerative disease; in cats, it’s often secondary to chronic inflammation. A cataract causes the lens of the eye to gradually become opaque, says Dr Fischer. Treatment depends on the cause, but usually involves surgery in dogs and treating the underlying inflammatory disease in cats.

+ GLAUCOMA This is a build-up of painful pressure in the eye caused by the inability of fluid there to drain properly. An affected pet needs veterinary help immediately, as it can cause permanent vision loss in days. Depending on the cause and how much damage there is, vets may be able to treat it with medication to lower the pressure or with surgery.

+ CORNEAL ULCERS Eye trauma like a scratch or an abrasion can lead to these. They should heal in three to five days with a topical antibiotic barring secondary infection.

KEEP THEM HEALTHY

Ensure the fur around their eyes is trimmed and don’t let your dog stick their head out the window of a moving car, Dr McCormack says. To remove discharge, wipe the area gently with a soft, damp cloth (don’t touch the eyeball). If your pet scratches at their eyes, use a cone. To avoid irritation that playing may cause, keep your dog away from other canines while they heal.