Eye problems in dogs are not uncommon. Dogs rely on their sense of smell to interpret the world around them, and that means having their faces all but pressed to the ground much of the time. Infections and injuries to the eyes happen frequently, and most of the time there is no cause for alarm. However, some eye problems in dogs are more serious and may require treatment. Here are some common problems that dog owners should watch out for.
Canine Eye Infections
As we said before, eye infections are fairly common in dogs. Most of the time, they aren't very serious, but they can be annoying and painful. To treat an eye infection in a dog, try splashing the infected eye with a saline solution or using a warm (not hot) chamomile tea bag as a compress. Most infections should clear up on their own, but these and other over-the-counter remedies will provide your dog with some relief.
Cataracts are common in dogs, especially those who live with diabetes. Cataracts cause the lenses of the eyes to become cloudy, and in time they could lead to partial or complete blindness. Severe cataracts are often treated with surgery, and less severe cases should be monitored closely. It's important to seek medical treatment for cataracts sooner rather than later since the problem can worsen quickly and cause permanent damage.
Dry Eye in Dogs
Dry eye is a condition in which the eyes do not produce enough tears to keep themselves properly lubricated. In time, this can cause irritation and even blindness. Although this condition can be treated with over-the-counter products such as LiquiTears eye drops, a more powerful prescription medication is usually far more effective.
Additional Pages of Interest:
Eye Infection Remedies for Dogs (Conjunctivitis)
Cherry Eye
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