Cataracts
Cataract in Dogs is usually hereditary in nature but can also be caused because of injury. A diabetic
dog is more prone to cataracts. Cataract can be in static for or it might increase with time. If cataract
covers less than 30 % of lens than it might not cause any harm but once it spread to more than 60 %
of lens than dog become visually impaired. Cataract usually progresses because of many factors like
breed of dog, type of cataract, age or presence of diseases like diabetes.
Breeds which are prone to hereditary cataracts are Labrador retriever, Cocker Spaniel, Poodle,
Welsh springer spaniel, Boston terrier etc.
Treatment
If cataract id suspected in dog than it must be taken to a Veterinarian for Eye examination and
understanding the level of vision impairment. Cataract can be removed by a surgical procedure
called Phacoemulsification which is similar to what is performed in humans. In this process the
cloudy part is removed from the eye. This process is usually performed when dog finds difficulty in
vision.
Dry eye
Also known as Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), in this condition the tear gland in inflamed and is
unable to produce the normal amount of tears thus making eyes dry. Because of less or not tear the
eyes are not lubricated and becomes unhealthy. Dry eye can be caused because of many reasons
but mainly it is associated with disorder of immune system. In certain breeds this condition can be
very painful and if left unattended than it can worsen. In order to diagnose these condition early
stages, regular eye examination is important.
Symptoms:
Discharge around eye
Rubbing or pawing at the eye and face
Frequent eye infections
Blinking of eye
Red eye
Breeds at Risk:
Cocker Spaniel, Shih tzu, Pug, English bull dog, Yorkshire terrier etc
Treatment
If any of the symptoms are suspected than please contact local veterinarian for confirmatory
diagnosis. Once diagnosed the veterinarian usually recommend a good eye drop to keep the eyes
moist and lubricated. Vet might recommend antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs in case of any
infection.
Apart from medication owner should also clean the eyes regularly with cotton swabs or soft and
clean wipes.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma in dogs is caused because of insufficient drainage of fluid from the eye. Because of this a
pressure is build up inside the eye that leads to damages in optic nerve and retina. Glaucoma is
usually inherited called as primary glaucoma or it may be caused because of another eye conditions
like cataracts or renal detachments.
Symptoms:
Change in pupil size
Pupil become unresponsive to light
Sticky discharge from eye
Squinting and blinking of eye
Breeds at risk-
Beagle, Cocker spaniel, Pug , Labrador Retriever, Siberian husky, Boston Terrier, Basset Hound etc
Treatment
If symptoms are detected than dog must be taken to veterinarian for confirmatory diagnosis. Vet will
identify whether the condition is because of primary or secondary glaucoma and accordingly
medication is given. Medications are usually given to reduce the pressure inside the eye. If condition
extreme than Vet might also suggest for laser therapy or surgery.
Conjunctivitis/eye infection
Conjunctivitis can be caused because of virus or bacteria. In this condition pink area under the eyelid
becomes inflamed and infected. It might be noninfectious in nature but during treatment the infected
dog must be kept away from other pets at home.
Symptoms:
Discharge from eye
Red and inflamed eye
Blinking or squinting of eye
Pawing or rubbing of eye
Swollen eyelid which leads to partial closure of eyes
Breeds at risk-
Maltese, Shih Tzu, Poodles, Lhasa apso and other breeds with long hairs
Treatment
Upon identification of any of the symptoms a dog must be taken to a veterinarian for confirmation.
Conjuctivitis might be non-infectious and causes irritation to the dog. Depending upon the severity of
condition Veterinarian might recommend Anti-inflammatory drug or Antibiotic. Regular cleaning and
washing of eye is also very important for fast recovery.
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