• July 26, 2023
  • By Madee Pfeiffer

Eye inflammation

An eye infection is inflammation of the lining of the eyelids. It is common in dogs and cats of all ages.

What are the causes of eye inflammation?

  • March

  • Foreign body in the eye

  • Run into a bush

  • Abnormal eyelids and eyelashes that burn the eye

  • In both eyes: It can be an allergy or an infectious disease such as cat flu.

What are the symptoms of an eye infection?
Eye infection in dogs is often accompanied by itching, watering and tearing. These symptoms are mainly caused by external influences. The dog gets dirty, cloudy eyes with a lot of discharge. Often the dogs close this eye.

If the inflammation persists, the lining of the eye swells, turns red, and pus may ooze out. Sometimes the third eyelid is visible. In addition to these symptoms, many dogs often feel lethargic or sick.

When should I go to the vet?
Of course, a dog's eyes are very important, but also very sensitive. If there is slight irritation, you can wait a few days. If this is not the case, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.

It is also advisable to see a veterinarian if your dog suffers from both eyes because it is important to determine the cause.

Finally, it is important to go to the vet if the dog keeps squeezing the eye and/or does not want to open it. This is a sign of pain. In this case, you should make an appointment with the vet immediately.

How is the treatment?
If the irritation is only mild, you can also do the cleaning yourself. This can be done with chilled boiled water (possibly with chilled chamomile tea as it has a calming effect).

In addition, eye drops or ointments high in vitamin A can have a soothing effect.

If the inflammation persists and the symptoms do not improve, a veterinary examination is necessary. Then the eye must be dripped or anointed with a supportive agent.

What is the prognosis of an eye infection?
Sometimes you can solve the problem yourself by cleaning the eye regularly. You may want to trim the long hair around the eye so it doesn't irritate the eye. The prospects are good, because in most cases it is a self-solvable problem.

How can an eye infection be prevented?
Try not to leave the animal in the draft. You may be able to trim the hair around the eye to prevent irritation or inflammation. In addition, it is important that the eye is cleaned regularly.

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