The eyes may be the windows to your pet’s soul, but they’re also a common source of injuries and health conditions that can be painful and are often serious. So, carefully read the list below and contact The Pony Express Veterinary Hospital if your pet’s eyes look abnormal.

Here are the most common dog and cat eye conditions and the signs that indicate your pet needs veterinary attention.

Cherry eye (i.e., third eyelid prolapse) in pets

Dogs and cats have a third eyelid under the inner corner of their eye that is actually a small gland typically held in place by ligaments. When the ligaments weaken, the gland protrudes into the eye and becomes visible. The condition is not painful, but pet owners are usually alarmed when they see a bright red mass obstructing their pet’s eye. Surgery to suture the gland in place is needed.

Cataracts in pets

Cataracts occur when the lens becomes cloudy (i.e., opaque) and alters normal vision by preventing light from entering the eye. Cataracts are commonly hereditary, although they may be a side effect of various diseases (e.g., diabetes). Some cataracts progress slowly, while others seem to appear overnight. Fortunately, the condition is not painful, and most pets adapt to their decreased vision. Cataracts can be removed surgically to restore vision. 

Cataracts should not be confused with lenticular sclerosis, an age-related condition that can give the eye a bluish cast.

Corneal ulcers in pets

The cornea is the clear membrane covering your pet’s eye. Corneal ulcers are wounds to this surface caused by irritants or traumatic injury (e.g., puncture), or the shape of your pet’s eye or eyelid. 

Affected pets are intensely uncomfortable and will rub or paw at their eye. They may also squint, or the injured eye may develop a significant discharge. Corneal ulcer treatment depends on the injury depth and the pet’s overall health. Uncomplicated ulcers are treated with topical medication.

Dry eye in pets

Dry eye (i.e., keratoconjunctivitis sicca [KCS]), which occurs because the eye doesn’t produce enough tears, can be a primary condition but is often a complication of other problems, such as cherry eye, facial conformation (e.g., eye and eyelid shape), various endocrine diseases, or certain medications. Untreated dry eye can lead to painful corneal ulcers.

Fortunately, most pets with dry eye can be successfully managed with topical treatments instilled daily. 

Eyelid conditions in pets

The eyelid is a common site for eye irritation and inflammation, including:

  • Distichia — Some pets have tiny hairs growing from glands along the eyelid that cause constant irritation and may lead to painful ulcers.
  • Entropion — When the eyelids roll inward, the pet’s hair and lashes rub against the sensitive eye.
  • Eyelid masses — Small skin masses on the eyelid can rub the eye or pull on the eyelid, causing irritation.

Corrective treatment, such as surgery or protective mediation, are strongly recommended to prevent serious injury caused by chronic irritation.

Glaucoma in pets

Glaucoma occurs when the pressure inside the eye exceeds the normal range, causing intense pain and vision loss as the retina and the optic nerve are damaged. The condition is generally inherited, although another ocular disorder or injury can cause secondary glaucoma. 

Unfortunately, no effective glaucoma treatment is available, but some pets can be managed with pain and pressure-reducing medication. If the condition is diagnosed early, certain measures can slow disease progression and vision loss, but many owners ultimately elect eye removal (i.e., enucleation) to eliminate glaucoma pain. 

Conjunctivitis in pets

Conjunctivitis (i.e., pink eye) occurs when the conjunctiva (i.e., mucus membrane) that covers the eye and eyelid becomes irritated and inflamed. Conjunctivitis has numerous causes, including viral or bacterial infections, external debris or irritants, allergies, and other eye disorders and injuries, and can affect one or both eyes. Conjunctivitis signs are easily identified and generally include eye discharge, squinting, eye redness, or eyelid swelling. Treatment generally involves identifying and addressing the underlying cause and topical or oral medication.

When to seek veterinary care for eye problems

If your bright-eyed pet is suddenly displaying troublesome signs, schedule an appointment at The Pony Express Veterinary Hospital. Eye conditions can progress rapidly and often lead to complications, but prompt attention protects your pet from additional discomfort, improves their outcome, and reduces veterinary care costs.

Ocular signs to look out for include:

  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Cloudiness or color change
  • Pawing or rubbing
  • Green, yellow, or white discharge
  • Squinting or frequent blinking
  • Visible object in or on the eye
  • Miscellaneous signs (e.g., coughing, sneezing, appetite loss, lethargy, bumping into things)

If you’re concerned about your pet’s eyes or vision for any reason, contact The Pony Express Veterinary Hospital. Our compassionate and knowledgeable team is dedicated to providing exceptional and modern veterinary care with the spirit of Old West values—authenticity, hospitality, humility, and heart.