Protecting Vision and Preventing Eye Conditions in Dogs and Cats

You’ve probably spent many hours gazing into your pet’s soulful eyes. They convey so much depth of emotion. Whether they are feeling pain, joy, or curiosity, their eyes hold the key to their inner world. Unsurprisingly, these delicate organs are highly sensitive and vulnerable to illness and injury. Included in our range of veterinary services at Long Animal Hospital and Emergency Center, pet eye health is part of a well-rounded approach to care. 

The Gamut of Ocular Issues

Eye conditions are common. Age-related issues such as cataracts, infections, or accidental injury to the eyes affect many pets. The good news is that your team at Long Animal Hospital and Emergency Center are experienced with the range of ocular issues. We can suggest treatments that ease pain, reverse symptoms, and influence long-term prognosis. 

When You See Something

Eye health is integral to your pet’s overall well-being. If you ever notice changes to their vision, such as bumping into things, straining, or an obvious trauma or injury to the eye, they should be examined right away. When it comes to pet eye health, time is of the essence. Left alone, many ocular conditions can result in permanent loss of vision. 

Red flags of acute eye conditions include:

• Redness
• Swelling
• Discharge
• Obvious trauma like a scratch or puncture
• Bleeding
• Distorted pupil
• Sudden sensitivity to light or touch
• Protrusion of the eye
• Foreign object in the eye

Depending on the cause (illness, allergies, or injury), we can move quickly to diagnose and treat problems impacting pet eye health.

Gradual-Onset of Chronic Conditions

Many eye conditions in pets develop slowly, with symptoms only appearing after some time. Cataracts may start to slowly cloud the eye, whereas glaucoma may start out with discharge and increase to swelling and pain. 

Certain health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer also cause or exacerbate common pet eye diseases. 

How You Can Help

In addition to maintaining your pet’s routine annual or bi-annual wellness exams, you can make a difference to your pet’s eyes in these ways:

• Routinely inspect their eyes for discharge, redness, or pain
• Clean the corners of the eyes regularly with a pet-safe cleanser
• Avoid getting shampoo or other products in their eyes
• Trim the eyebrows or other hairs close to the eyes
• Discourage them from exploring near tall grass or weeds
• Consistently offer a balanced diet that promotes eye health and boosts general vitality

Pet Eye Health for the Win

Just like regular dental care influences overall wellness, pet eye health plays a part in general well-being. We recommend paying close attention to the appearance and quality of your pet’s eyes every day, making note of any changes, even slight or subtle ones, and acting quickly when something is off. Shifts in behavior can signal that a pet needs help, especially in the absence of obvious physical signs.

As always, your partners in pet health are always happy to assist you at Long Animal Hospital and Emergency Center. Please call us at  (704) 523-2996 with any questions or concerns about your pet’s eyes.