Routine wellness exams provide incredible opportunities to catch all sorts of potential problems. When it comes to a pet’s eye health and vision, we can take stock of various problems and intervene before they progress. Often, common eye problems in dogs and cats can be effectively treated and corrected. Whether a pet needs diagnostics, medication, or surgery, our team can help soothe and support.
Here’s Lookin’ At You
Some eye problems can creep up on a pet owner, developing so gradually that changes aren’t readily noticeable. By the time symptoms are obvious to the naked eye, certain issues may not be reversible.
The eyes age just like the rest of the body’s organs, and degeneration can come with the territory. However, other common eye problems in cats and dogs, including scratches, ulcers, or infection are immediately concerning. Any changes to the appearance of the eyes should be quickly noted and examined.
Know What’s Normal
Many common eye problems in dogs and cats are related to an injury, but sometimes an illness is responsible for affecting the functions of one or both eyes. Eye issues can also be breed-specific, and we can help you understand genetic predispositions for ocular issues.
Don’t Wait
The eyes are not only vitally important to a pet’s overall health, they are highly sensitive. Please call us immediately if you notice any of these warning signs:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Squinting
- Discharge
- Repeated attempts to scratch or paw at the eye
- Dilated pupils
- Excessive tearing
- Cloudiness
- Changes to the size or appearance of the eyes
Pain typically accompanies common eye problems in pets, and should be addressed quickly. Left alone, vision can become temporarily or permanently compromised.
Common Eye Problems in Dogs and Cats
The most commonly diagnosed issues that affect the eyes include:
- Conjunctivitis, viral or bacterial, can lead to inflammation of the cornea. Infections can be related to feline herpesvirus, allergies, or even trauma.
- Glaucoma, a painful condition caused by a buildup of fluid in and around the eyes. Bulging, pain to the touch, and fluid are characteristic of the disease.
- Cataracts appear cloudy or white in the eyes, and inhibit light from reaching the retina.
- Dry eye disease impairs the production of protective film on the eye surface and the inside the eyelids. Dry eye problems may occur more in certain breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels.
- Cherry eye concerns the third eyelid. Look for swelling.
- Corneal ulcers can result from glaucoma, dry eye disease, conjunctivitis, or traumatic injury. They can affect brachycephalic breeds more often.
These issues can become even more problematic without medical treatment. Left alone, eye problems can lead to other health conditions, pain, decreased activity levels, and social withdrawal. While prevention is important to the health of the eyes, it is equally important to seek help when symptoms appear.
We’re Here For Your Pet
Whether a pet is experiencing an acute or chronic eye problem, it is crucial to get them the help they need. Since pain can negatively impact a pet’s quality of life, we can quickly address their sensitivity, diagnose the problem, and help them heal.
In cases of vision impairment, we are able to provide environmental recommendations that keep a pet safe, secure, and comfortable. Please give us a call at (818) 614-9929. Our team is always here for your pet.