To pets, vision is as precious as it is to humans. Eye complications are a common problem in animals, just as they are among humans. Pet owners can seek veterinary guidance and prevent more serious problems by understanding these problems.
This post will cover the most typical issues with pet eyes.
Most Common Pet Eye Problems
The most common eye problems in animals can vary depending on the type of animal, breed, and age. Nevertheless, some of the most common ones that animals might experience include the following:
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is a swelling of the conjunctiva, also called “pink eye.” This thin, transparent membrane borders the inside of the eyelids and covers the white area of the eye. The signs of conjunctivitis in animals might consist of:
- Inflammation
- Swelling
- Discharge
- Squinting
- Eye rubbing
Treatment for conjunctivitis might vary depending on the cause and extent of the condition but may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, or eye drops. Nevertheless, it is vital to look for a veterinary ophthalmologist in Clovis if you believe your furry friend has conjunctivitis, as urgent treatment can help stop the problem from getting worse and resulting in more major eye problems.
Corneal Ulcers
An open sore on the cornea is a corneal ulcer and can be caused by injury and infection. The signs of a corneal ulcer in animals might include:
- Squinting
- Redness
- Swelling
- Discharge
- Cloudiness or opacity in the eye
If left neglected, corneal ulcers can lead to vision loss and even blindness in serious cases. Treatment for corneal ulcers might involve medication, including antibiotics or antifungal agents, to combat any underlying infection. Surgery can also be needed in some cases to cure the ulcer.
If you think your pet might have a corneal ulcer, you must take them to the vet emergency hospital right away to ensure that it might be addressed before the problem worsens and the eye is permanently harmed.
Cataracts
The eye’s lens can get clouded, which can lead to vision being blurry or impaired. This clouding can disrupt vision and lead to loss of sight if left untreated. They are most commonly seen in older pets. The symptoms of cataracts in pets may consist of:
- Cloudy or hazy vision
- A change in eye color
- Bumping into things
- Trouble seeing in low light
- Loss of vision
One approach to dealing with cataracts includes having the cloudy lens surgically removed and replaced with an artificial lens. However, not all pets are good candidates for cataract surgery, so it’s essential to review the ideal treatment options for your furry friend with your veterinarian. In some cases, dealing with the underlying cause, like diabetes, may also help slow the progression of cataracts. You may check here for more information regarding this.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is when the pressure inside the eye increases, damaging the optic nerve and possibly leading to loss of sight. It is often seen in older animals and particular breeds, including beagles and cocker spaniels. The signs of glaucoma in pets might consist of:
- Redness
- Pain
- Tearing
- Cloudiness
- Opacity in the eye
- Vision loss
Early diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma are essential in preserving eyesight and preventing further damage to the optic nerve. Treatment for glaucoma might include medication, like eye drops or oral medications, to minimize the pressure within the eye. Surgery may occasionally be necessary to drain the fluid from the eye and lessen the pressure.
If you think your pet has glaucoma, it’s necessary to take them to the vet immediately so that they can begin treatment before the illness advances and leads to irreversible visual loss.
Bottom Line
It’s important to note that these are just some common eye problems animals may experience, and many other problems can impair your pet’s eyes. If you see any symptoms of eye problems in your animal companion, it is vital to seek vet treatment to determine the cause and necessary treatment.
