Introduction
Eye diseases in dogs are pretty common. Like any other disease, eye diseases in dogs can be contracted in different ways. While some symptoms are pretty obvious, not all of them will be immediately noticeable. Here is some basic information about symptoms of different eye diseases in dogs.
Symptoms of More Common Eye Diseases in Dogs
Cherry Eye – In this eye disease you would notice a lump in the corner of the dog’s eye. This is often a lump that will be cherry red in color. This is the classic symptom that any dog will have when they develop this disease. Once you visit the veterinarian, you will know how to properly treat this condition. It is caused by a prolapsed gland in the dog’s eye.
Conjunctivitis – This disease is also known as “pinkeye” and can occur in any dog. Eye diseases in dogs can be similar to those found in humans and this particular disease is a prime example of such. This disease will be evident when your dog has an eye that appears very irritated. You may notice your dog will take his/her paw and rub at their infected eye. The membrane that surrounds the eye will be red and inflamed. Treatment is usually done with eye drops that you can get from your veterinarian.
Eyelash Disorders – Eyelash growth that appears abnormal is not uncommon in dogs. The names of the eyelash disorders are different, but the most common symptoms associated with any of them are:
• excess tear production
• discharge from eye
• red, irritated eye (conjunctivitis)
• irritated cornea (can see blood vessels or pigmentation in clear part of eye)
• ulcers on cornea
Those are the eye diseases in dogs that seem to be most common. It is essential that you take your dog to a veterinarian to assure proper diagnosis and treatment. There are some eye diseases in dogs that are much less common but do happen.
Symptoms of Less Common Eye Diseases in Dogs
As dogs age, they are more susceptible to certain eye diseases. One such disease that afflicts older dogs is cataracts. While cataracts are more common in elderly dogs, it isn’t so common for a younger dog to have them. A dog with cataracts is going to display symptoms associated with impaired vision. The eye(s) that are afflicted will also have a pupil that appears to be cloudy or white/gray in color. Surgery is an option in some cases. If you notice your dog having any of these symptoms, you should consult your veterinarian for possible treatment options.
Cone-rod dystrophy which is also known as CRD for short, is known to affect only certain breeds of dogs. This is a serious eye disease that will eventually lead to total blindness for your dog. Eye diseases in dogs such as CRD are fairly rare but this one in particular is more so. Cause by a chromosome abnormality, this disease is classified as a retinal degenerative disorder. If your dog has CRD, you may notice your dog is portraying symptoms associated with poor vision. Although there is not treatment at this time, it is important that you have your dog evaluated for this uncommon disease so you can formulate a plan of care for your pet.
Tips and comments
It is important to have your dog regularly examined by a veterinarian.
