Eye health is just as important for pets as it is for humans. Whether due to infection, injury, or an underlying medical condition, ocular issues can develop quickly and worsen without treatment. Some eye problems are minor, but others may indicate a medical emergency requiring immediate care.

At High Point Animal Hospital, we provide comprehensive eye exams and treatments to help protect your pet’s vision and comfort.

Learn more about common eye conditions in pets.

Common Eye Conditions in Dogs, Cats, and Small Pets

1. Conjunctivitis (“Pink Eye”)

Symptoms:

  • Red, swollen, or irritated eyes
  • Watery or pus-like discharge
  • Frequent blinking or squinting

Causes:

  • Allergies
  • Bacterial or viral infections
  • Foreign objects in the eye

Read more about conjunctivitis in pets.

2. Corneal Ulcers

Corneal ulcers occur when the clear outer layer of the eye becomes scratched or eroded.

Symptoms:

  • Cloudy or bluish appearance in the eye
  • Excessive tearing
  • Sensitivity to light

Causes:

  • Trauma (scratches from another animal or rubbing)
  • Chemical irritation
  • Underlying diseases like dry eye or infections

 Learn about corneal ulcers and treatments.

3. Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca – KCS)

Dry eye occurs when the eye does not produce enough tears, leading to discomfort and vision issues.

Symptoms:

  • Thick, yellow eye discharge
  • Redness and irritation
  • Frequent blinking or pawing at the eyes

Causes:

  • Immune system disorders
  • Chronic infections
  • Certain medications

Treatment may involve medicated eye drops, artificial tears, and addressing underlying causes.

4. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a serious condition where increased pressure in the eye can cause permanent vision loss if not treated.

Symptoms:

  • Bulging or swollen appearance in one or both eyes
  • Cloudy eye surface
  • Vision loss or disorientation

This is a medical emergency—immediate veterinary intervention is required to relieve pressure and prevent blindness.

5. Cataracts

Cataracts cause clouding of the lens, leading to impaired vision or blindness.

Symptoms:

  • Cloudy, white, or bluish eye appearance
  • Difficulty seeing in dim lighting
  • Bumping into objects

Cataracts are more common in senior pets and may be caused by aging, diabetes, or genetics. Surgery may be an option for some pets.

Ocular Emergencies: When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Care

Some eye problems require urgent attention to prevent permanent damage or loss of vision. Contact High Point Animal Hospital immediately if your pet has:

  • Sudden blindness or difficulty navigating
  • Severe swelling or bulging of the eye
  • A visible wound or object stuck in the eye
  • Excessive squinting, pain, or unwillingness to open the eye
  • Thick green or yellow discharge

 Learn more about eye emergencies in pets.

Diagnosing Eye Problems in Pets

At High Point Animal Hospital, we use advanced diagnostic tools to assess eye health, including:

  • Fluorescein Staining – Detects corneal ulcers and scratches
  • Tonometry – Measures eye pressure to check for glaucoma
  • Ophthalmoscopy – Examines the retina and optic nerve

If your pet’s eye issue is severe or complex, we may refer you to a veterinary ophthalmologist.

Treatment Options for Eye Conditions in Pets

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the eye problem:

  • Infections – Antibiotic or antiviral eye drops
  • Corneal ulcers – Medicated drops, pain management, or surgical repair
  • Dry eye (KCS) – Tear-stimulating medications and artificial tears
  • Glaucoma – Medications to reduce pressure or surgical intervention
  • Cataracts – Monitoring or surgery for advanced cases

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are key to preserving vision and preventing complications.

Preventing Eye Problems in Pets

While not all eye conditions can be prevented, these steps can help reduce the risk:

  • Regular Veterinary Exams – Annual eye exams can detect early signs of disease.
  • Grooming and Eye Cleaning – Gently wipe away discharge and consult with your groomer regarding the length of hair around the eyes.
  • Keep Hazardous Objects Away – Prevent scratches from sharp toys or rough play.
  • Monitor for Allergies – Reduce exposure to dust, pollen, and irritants.

If you notice any changes in your pet’s eyes, don’t wait—early treatment can prevent long-term damage.

 Schedule an eye exam today at High Point Animal Hospital.

FAQs About Pet Eye Health

How do I know if my pet has an eye infection?

Common signs include redness, discharge, swelling, and frequent pawing at the eye. If symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, schedule a vet visit.

Can eye problems be a sign of a more serious illness?

Yes. Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and autoimmune diseases can cause eye issues. A full veterinary exam may be needed.

Is there anything I can do at home for minor eye irritation?

You can gently flush your pet’s eye with sterile saline solution, but avoid using over-the-counter human eye drops unless instructed by a vet.

Protect Your Pet’s Vision: Schedule an Eye Exam Today

Eye problems in pets can progress quickly, leading to pain and potential vision loss. If your pet is showing any signs of eye discomfort, redness, or squinting, don’t delay.

Call High Point Animal Hospital to schedule an appointment today!

Our experienced veterinary team is here to help keep your pet’s eyes healthy and their vision clear.