Since our pets can’t verbally tell us when something is wrong, sometimes it’s up to us to recognize signs of certain health issues. Eye problems with your dog or cat could range from a simple scratch to a significant illness. Eyes are a precious thing for humans and animals, and you want to address issues quickly to maintain their health. This guide will help you spot these eye problems before they become big issues for your dog or cat.
Common Eye Problems with Dogs and Cats
The eyes give us a lot of answers about health throughout the body. When something is wrong there, it could indicate a problem that is starting somewhere else. Some of the most common eye problems for pets are caused by:
- Diabetes
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Uveitis
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome
These eight common eye conditions in dogs can result from the issues above. Similarly, these six common eye conditions in cats can result. As with any health issue, it is important to determine the cause and what condition is developing so your veterinarian can find the best solution for your pet.
Repeated Touching of the Area
If your dog or cat repeatedly paws or rubs its eyes, it could be a sign that something is wrong. There’s no need for alarm if this is an isolated behavior, but if it starts to happen frequently, it could be time to schedule a visit with your veterinarian. Also, if the eyes look swollen, puffy, or otherwise inflamed, you should get the animal checked with a professional.
Cloudiness of the Eye
Eye conditions like glaucoma or cataracts can cause a visible cloudiness to an animal’s eye. If your dog or cat’s eyes look cloudy, you should definitely schedule a veterinary appointment. The cloudiness can impact your pet’s vision, which can make it harder to safely navigate the house (or the yard). The sooner you notify your vet of a potential problem, the sooner he or she can find the best solution.
Discharge or Excessive Tearing
Many health conditions lead to leaky eyes as a side effect. If your pet suddenly has a lot of discharge around the eyes or is dealing with excessive tears, there might be a bigger problem. The next time you stare lovingly into your pet’s eyes, pay attention to any tears or discharge. If you are unsure if there has been an increase in the amount, it never hurts to get an exam.
Difficulty Seeing
When pets start to bump into furniture or have difficulty navigating spaces they once ran through with ease, they might have vision problems. You know your pet and their typical behavior; if something has changed suddenly, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Getting your pet checked out early will help the veterinary team find the quickest and best solution for your pet’s eye problems.
Corneal Ulcers
Corneal ulcers are one of the most common eye diseases. These ulcers usually result from a scratch or abrasion to the eye, an infection that turns into a corneal ulcer, or underlying eye conditions like dry eye. You will notice signs such as excessive blinking, tearing, eye rubbing, or a cloudy appearance. Corneal ulcers can lead to vision loss, eye rupture, or loss of the eye, so it is essential to seek treatment as soon as possible.
KCS (Dry Eye)
KCS, aka dry eye, is a condition where your pet doesn’t produce enough tears. Without enough lubrication to protect the eye, it can become inflamed. It is more common in dogs and is often due to immune-mediated inflammation of their tear glands or an autoimmune condition that affects the tear glands. It can also result from injury, surgery, or radiation. You will see redness, pain, excessive blinking, cloudiness, and a thick discharge.
Increased Anxiety
Pets who are experiencing eye problems might become startled more easily, or start to experience anxiety they never had before. Significant changes in behavior like these are often signs that something is wrong, and it’s your pet’s way of telling you. If you notice that your pet is scared more often, you should schedule a checkup.
We can examine your pet’s eyes, and if we see eye problems with your dog or cat, we can provide treatment or refer you to a veterinary ophthalmologist for further examination if indicated.
At Union Lake Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help with everything from eye issues to general wellness concerns. Our dedicated team is here to offer top-tier veterinary services at every stage of your pet’s life. Call (248) 363-1508 to schedule an appointment.