Sometimes our pets develop eye infections which can become irritating and uncomfortable for your dog or cat. The sooner you see a veterinarian for pet eye infections, the sooner your pet can receive treatment and start recovering. In most cases, an eye infection is not very serious for pets; however, if left untreated, it can endanger your pet’s eyesight. The veterinary staff at Annapolis Veterinary & Wellness in Annapolis, MD, are dedicated to keeping your pet comfortable, healthy, and happy. Following are the answers to several questions we frequently receive regarding pet eye infections.
What are the symptoms of pet eye infections?
Knowing how to recognize the signs of pet eye infections is vital to allow for quick treatment, helping your pet return to good health. Most pets will develop a thick mucousy discharge from one or both eyes when suffering from an eye infection. Other common signs and symptoms of pet eye infections may include a cloudy iris, swollen eyes, and redness. Your pet may also paw at their eyes, squint, or continually blink.
How do I prevent pet eye infections?
For cats, the best way to prevent eye infections is to keep your cat inside, which can reduce the risk of disease by up to 80 percent. For dogs, the best way to reduce eye infections is to have them routinely groomed, removing any long hairs around their eyes. Additionally, wiping your pet’s face with a damp cloth at night can help remove pollen and other allergens that may have accumulated on your pet’s face during the day.
What causes pet eye infections?
Various things can cause pet eye infections, including injuries, bacteria, parasites, viruses, and foreign substances caught in your cat or dog’s eye. Other causes of eye infections may include smoke or shampoo in the eye. Allergies can cause the eyes to appear to look infected and could develop into an infection. It is always best to take your pet to the veterinarian because it could signify a more serious health condition.
Call Our Annapolis Veterinary Office to Schedule an Appointment Today
Pet eye infections can be dangerous for your pet, especially without proper treatment. Almost all eye infections in pets can be treated with ointments and medications, while others may be a sign of a more significant health condition. If your dog or cat is experiencing any of the symptoms of eye infections, call Annapolis Veterinary & Wellness in Annapolis, MD, today at (410) 224-6624 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian.