It is quite common for dogs and cats to experience red or inflamed eyes. It’s crucial to monitor your pet’s eye cleanliness, as redness could indicate a harmless issue or a serious condition. Various factors can cause eye redness, ranging from minor conjunctivitis due to pollution or dust to severe glaucoma. Treatment depends on the issue and may include special eye drops or surgical intervention. In any case, consult your veterinarian for an examination, diagnosis, and appropriate medication. Do not ignore any symptoms, as the consequences could be dire.
Common eye diseases:
Conjunctivitis
This widespread eye condition affects both dogs and cats, causing inflammation of the eye’s connective membrane. Conjunctivitis can occur from injuries, contaminants in the eye, exposure to chemicals or gases, and various infections. Weakened immunity, metabolic disorders, and a fragile conjunctiva predispose your pet to this disease. Symptoms include excessive tearing, eye redness, conjunctival swelling, and, in severe cases, pus discharge and ulcers.
Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation)
Blepharitis occurs due to irritants, foreign bodies, infections, or injuries. It is characterized by eyelid inflammation and reddening of the affected eye’s protein membrane, accompanied by roughness.
Keratitis (corneal inflammation)
Keratitis affects the cornea, caused by pollution, infections, or injuries. Symptoms include excessive tearing, pus discharge, light sensitivity, and potential ulcers. Vessels may grow into the cornea, causing cloudiness.
Uveitis (choroid inflammation)
Uveitis involves the inflammation of the eye’s choroid, which surrounds the eye with vessels. Symptoms include excessive tearing, light sensitivity, a sunken eyeball, and a constricted pupil. Untreated uveitis can lead to deteriorating vision.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma, a dangerous condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure, can be congenital or develop from eye inflammation, injury, or lens displacement. Symptoms include an enlarged eyeball, redness, and a gray-blue corneal clouding. Without timely treatment, glaucoma can result in blindness.
Trichiasis (misdirected eyelashes)
Trichiasis occurs when eyelashes grow towards the eyeball, causing contact with the cornea. This condition leads to excessive tearing, conjunctival inflammation, and swelling. The cornea may become uneven.
Eye injuries
Various eye injuries can cause hemorrhage in the eye’s anterior chamber.
At the first sign of any eye issue, consult your veterinarian to prevent further disease progression or potential blindness. Be vigilant in monitoring your pet for unusual formations or secretions.
