Canine Eye Infection Complications | Dog Eye Infection Complications
Dog eye infections are viewed as a warning sign of more complex and serious illnesses. When your pet has any number of the symptoms described in the previous section it is best to investigate the cause so as to halt it’s progression. Many diseases are first indicated via the condition of the dog’s eyes.
Irritants that cause mild redness are often easy to heal but more frequent and severe inflammations require a quick by the vet. An infection left on its own can develop into many more complicated conditions.
1. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca or Dry eye is just as it sounds; a lack of moisture on the eye. Prevalent in breeds that have extended or bulging eyes like Shih Tzu and Pugs who have a greater surface area to wet, these types of canines may have trouble closing their eyes all the way preventing the eyes from getting a complete coating when blinking. These types of dogs may need additional help in keeping their eyes moist and clean. If left unattended an accumulation of bacteria and fungus can form manifesting into even greater discomfort and diseases.
2. Pink Eye. Even dogs can get pink eye or conjunctivitis and is considered a rather common ailment. White is the preferable color for the area surrounding you dog’s eyes. Pink is the signal of conjunctivitis and if untreated can develop into a major infection that can lead to blindness.
3. Cherry Eye. Canine nictitans gland prolapse are little pink cherry like lumps that appear in the corner of the eye. Caused by the slipping of the eyelid from its normal location, the condition can become worse when left untreated and can be acerbated by the animals pawing and scratching.
4. Glaucoma. Infection of the eyes can put increased pressure on the retina and surrounding blood vessels resulting in Glaucoma. The condition should be attended to quickly in order to prevent diminished vision or complete loss of sight.
5. Cataracts. The clouding or whitening of the dog’s eye lens may be a result of its genetic nature and inherited by its parents or can be caused from an injury to the eye. Immune deficiencies and chronic illness can also create this ocular film which although not usually life threatening, can be a hazard to your pet’s vision and make them unattractive.
Even the most minor dog eye infections, when left untreated can be converted into far greater illnesses and unnecessary condition. The key to halting infections before they do further damage is a combination of vigilance and prevention.
