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Is it eyelid boogers or an infection in your dog's eye? Learn about the signs and cures of dog eye problems, as well as how to keep your dog's eyes healthy.
It's difficult to look away from those large, expressive puppy eyes. If you're concerned about your dog's tears or redness in the eyes, Kristina Vygantas, DVM of NorthStar VETS &diplomate, American University of Vet Ophthalmologists, has some advice. You'll be able to help your beloved pet if you understand the causes and symptoms of dog eye infection. Vygantas also explains how to cure dog eye infections as well as how to prevent them in the first place.
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Causes of Dog Eye Infection
There are a variety of causes for dog eye infections. The majority of human eye problems are caused by a virus and bacteria, but pet diseases are a little more complicated. "Primary eye infections in dogs really aren't nearly as common as they are in cats and humans," Vygantas explains. "Ocular discharge or irritation are more typically associated with the other underlying diseases in dogs, such as allergies, dry eye, or structural eyelid abnormalities, which can lead to a secondary infection of the eye." As a result, many canine eye illnesses are not communicable.
The following are some of the most common causes of dog eye infections:
- Allergies
- Birth abnormalities and problems with the tear ducts
- Injuries
- Eyes that are dry
- The presence of foreign materials in the eye
- Canine distemper is a disease that affects dogs.
- Tumors
Conjunctivitis, an eye issue due to inflammation of the eye's lining, can be caused by several irritants and situations. Pink eye, a contagious type of conjunctivitis induced by a basic bacterial or viral infection, affects dogs less frequently.
If your dog displays symptoms of an eye problem, presume it's contagious & hold him back from other dogs to prevent the infection from spreading. Shared water and food dishes should be avoided, and dog bedding should be washed with hot water on a frequent basis.
Conjunctivitis, regardless of the source, is not only unpleasant for your dog, but it can also permanently harm his vision if left untreated. As a result, it's critical to be aware of common pet eye infection symptoms & seek professional help if you feel your dog has one.
Symptoms of an Eye Infection in Your Dog
Excessive eye discharge is the most visible sign of a pet eye infection. However, not all canine eye discharge is created equal. To discover if it's allergies and something more serious, go through this list:
Goop and Crust there in Corner of Eye: Eye boogers affect almost all canines (and humans) at some point. The eyes are irritated by dried tears, mucus, dirt, dead skin cells, as well as other irritants. This is normal and usually isn't a reason for concern unless this gets out of hand. That doesn't make it appealing to the eye. Simply soften as well as gently wash away any goop and crust from surrounding hair with a warm, moist cloth to remove dog eye boogers safely.
Watery Eyes: Just as in people, watery eyes can be caused by dust, allergies, or other harmless irritants and will usually go away in a day or two. Make a visit with the vet to rule out anything more serious if the problem increases, changes, or your dog appears unhappy.
Reddish-brown Fur Yellowing Around the Eyes: While the presence of brown discharge located on the inner eye may appear worrying, this staining is usually normal. The pigment in canine tears can discolor light-colored fur. It's probably normal if there are no additional signs of discomfort or infection.
Light-colored mucus, such as white or gray, indicates that your dog's eyes aren't generating tears as they should. In response, the eyes create too much mucus to keep them hydrated, but this isn't enough to keep them from irritating. Make an appointment with your veterinarian to get the problem diagnosed. She'll probably prescribe artificial tears or dog eye drops to keep your dog's eyes wet and healthy and avoid further issues.
If your dog has a green or yellow eye discharge, it's most likely an eye illness, particularly if eyes are red and inflamed. If left untreated, eye infections can lead to significant consequences, so seek veterinarian help straight soon.
Certain types are more vulnerable to infection-causing eye problems. Breeds with drooping skin, such as shar-peis, bulldogs, and mastiffs, can have irritation-causing eyelid disorders. Shih tzus, pugs, or bulldogs, for example, have reduced snouts and protruding eyes, making them susceptible to corneal problems. Still, eye infections may affect dogs of all breeds and ages, so keep an eye out for symptoms and make an appointment with the veterinarian if you detect anything strange or if your dog isn't acting like herself.
When to Consult a Veterinarian
If your dog is rubbing and scratching at the eyes, or even if they look red, irritated, or swollen, it's time to take her to the doctor. "The first step is to consult your veterinarian and, if the doctor feels it necessary, seek referral to a vet ophthalmologist," Vygantas explains.
Because there are so many underlying causes, it's critical to acquire a precise diagnosis and figure out the best treatment approach. "The source of chronic discharge is usually determined by a thorough eye exam, which includes measuring tear production, pressure inside the eye, and examining for any corneal abrasions," Vygantas explains. "Managing and decreasing the discharge requires targeted therapy directed at the actual reason of the eye irritation."
Infections of the Eyes in Dogs and How to Treat Them
Because there are a variety of causes for dog eye problems, there are also a variety of treatments available. Antibiotics are the most popular treatment for pup eye infection. If an antibiotic-resistant dog eye infection persists, consult your veterinarian. Nonbacterial eye infections may necessitate the use of ointments or eyewashes to treat and soothe your dog's eyes.
Is it possible for a dog's eye infection to go away by itself? Vygantas believes this is unlikely. A short internet search will find up several natural cures for pet eye infections, such as cider vinegar or green tea, but Vygantas does not suggest this method. "Only the mildest instances of conjunctivitis will respond to over-the-counter or at-home treatments," she explains.
While it may be tempting to avoid the doctor and cure your dog's eye infection with an apple cider vinegar solution, bear in mind that an eye problem is a serious condition that almost always necessitates proper help to protect your dog's vision.
How to Take Care of Your Dog's Eyes
The eyes of your dog are priceless. With a few basic procedures, you can keep them healthy. To begin, keep your dog's long hair clipped away from her eyes to reduce irritation. Trim only when she's calm and steady, using blunt-tip scissor held parallel to her eye.
It's also critical to keep debris and mucous out of your dog's eyes. Cleaning a dog's eyes on a regular basis is equal to cleaning an eye infection in a dog: To remove and soften the boogers or crust as in surrounding fur, apply a dry, warm towel to the region. Wipe the eye clean gently, being careful not to rub the eye.
Routine eye care will keep your dog happy and healthy, and any differences in the look of her eyes should be noted. Also, keep in mind that eye care is only one aspect of your dog's overall health. Make an appointment with the veterinarian to confirm that all of your pet's preventatives, medications, and immunizations are current.
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