Red eyes in dogs and cats is a warning sign that something is wrong, isn’t it?
And, you have probably seen this anomaly a few times and wondered what might have caused the problem. So this redness may be the symptom of some kind of eye infection or nuisance that causes irritation in the area.
As in humans, the eye region of dogs and cats is very sensitive and deserves a lot of attention. Stay with us and learn how to identify problems and what steps you can take.
Possible Causes of Red Eye in Dogs and Cats
Dogs and cats may have redness in their eyes for a variety of reasons. Since problems involving the structures of the eye bulb itself or adjacent tissues. Even more serious diseases, including systemic ones.
The sign is usually associated with some type of eye inflammation such as keratitis and kerato-conjunctivitis. But they can also be the result of problems such as glaucoma, cataracts, orbital disease, trauma, hemorrhages, and corneal damage.
Some dog and cat breeds are predisposed to specific ophthalmic diseases, which may be congenital (at birth) or acquired. Such as young dogs of the Shar-Pei, Bulldog, Rottweiler, Chow Chow breeds, among others. They often develop eyelid conformation changes that require surgical treatment.
Another common condition in young animals that have surgical indication is the prolapse of the third eyelid gland. It appears as a red ball in the inner corner of the eye and can result in discomfort and excessive eye discharge.
Other common eye problems
We can also cite other examples of eye problems that are common to early animals, such as:
- Uveitis – is one of the causes of red eyes in dogs and cats. It happens when there is an inflammation of the iris, or due to trauma, bacteria, viruses, among other problems;
- Blepharitis – It is the inflammation of the eyelids that also causes that reddish color in the eyes and the reason ranges from an infection to an allergy. In this case, it is also possible to detect the swelling;
- Corneal ulcer – can also be a cause and it is erosion caused on the surface of the cornea, but it is not always possible to be seen with the naked eye. The animal may end up with strabismus;
- Conjunctivitis – is one of the most common problems between dogs and cats, which makes their eyes redden. It is an inflammation of the conjunctiva because of some irritation, allergy or an infection.
Top Signs of Eye Problems
When the animal has any of these eye problems, it is common to have some characteristic signs. So, we can mention as main:
- Red eyes (redness);
- Secretion;
- Itching (itching);
- Eyes closed or blinking excessively;
- Disorientation or insecurity;
- Changes in the appearance of the eyes, such as the increased volume of the eyeball.
It is important that the pet’s guardian be aware of these signs, as in some cases they may be indicative of a more serious problem.
Recommended measures and care
It is important to advise the tutor on the need to seek a veterinarian who is knowledgeable in the area as soon as he or she notices the change in the eyes of the animal. As a nuisance or if there is no apparent cause. The different causes of redness in the eyes need special attention and care. For some of them, if not dealt with quickly, it can even lead to blindness.
Some precautions may be taken by tutors to avoid and mitigate problems. Like for example:
- Hair hygiene;
- Cleaning of the eye region;
- Avoid using sharp objects (toys);
- Routine visits to the vet, among others.
Cases of eye problems in small animals are increasingly recurring in veterinary clinics and hospitals. Therefore, being prepared to act with the most diverse situations is the differential of the veterinarian.
Guaranteeing the quality of life of pets is more than essential and for this, thorough knowledge and caution is required for positive results. When it comes to pet care, do you veterinarians really know what to do?
Small errors can be very harmful. Our partner CPT Face-to-Face Courses is offering you an opportunity to be an expert in the care of major dog ophthalmic diseases.
