Pets are kept in many homes for company and pleasure. Pets are a good source of companionship and can be animals such as dogs, cats, horses, birds, poultry, guinea pigs, turtles, other reptiles, and any other animals of choice.
Just like human beings, pets are susceptible to various eye infections. It is highly recommended you should see a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment before attempting to treat the condition at home. Severe infections should be viewed as an emergency. Some symptoms, if not taken care of urgently, may lead to extreme pain and discomfort, as well as vision loss.
Types of Pet Eye Infections
- Conjunctivitis is a common infection affecting the mucous membrane covering your pet’s eye and eyelids.
- Endophthalmitis is inflammation of internal tissues and external layers of your pet’s eye.
- Keratitis is inflammation of the cornea, a painful condition for your pet.
- Cellulitis is a rare skin condition affecting pets, especially dogs.
- Uveitis is inflammation of the center/middle section of the eye.
- Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids.
- A stye is a bacterial infection that looks like a boil or a pimple. It involves one or more small glands at the base of the eyelashes.
Symptoms of Pet Eye Infections
There are several signs of pet eye infections to be on the lookout for. These include:
- Swelling around the eye
- Cloudy iris
- Redness of the eye and its surroundings
- Discharge that is watery, yellow, green, thick, or smelly
- Tearing or watery eyes
- Blinking abnormally
- Sensitivity to light
- Holding the eye closed
- Rubbing, scratching, or pawing
Causes of Pet Eye Infections
Common causes of eye infections in pets include, but are not limited to:
- Viruses
- Fungus
- Bacteria
- Irritants or allergens
- Debris or other foreign matter
- Eye injury or trauma
- Corneal abrasion
- Hereditary eye conditions
- Tumors
- Autoimmune diseases
Treatment of Pet Eye Infections
Pet eye infections must be treated with the utmost care by a skilled veterinarian. Most are treated with antibiotics, including sulfadiazine, gentamicin, ceftiofur, procaine penicillin, tobramycin, ciprofloxacin, bacitracin, polymyxin, neomycin, chloramphenicol, ox tetracycline, or atropine.
Anti-inflammatory agents may also be used to reduce swelling and irritation. Antibiotic ointments might also be used to prevent infections in burns, scrapes, or even minor cuts. Antimicrobial eyewash is also used for flushing out debris and dirt that irritates the eyes. Artificial tears come in handy in many cases to maintain eye moisture while the eye heals.
Let Our Veterinarian Treat Your Pet Today!
As there are many ways to treat pet eye infections, proper diagnosis is paramount. Don’t hesitate to contact our veterinary team at Mauston Pet Hospital serving Mauston, WI, and the surrounding area. Our veterinarian will treat your pet’s condition and help ensure maximum eye health for your pets with additional information on maintaining good eye hygiene. Please get in touch with us today at (608) 847-6024 to schedule your appointment.