Conjunctivitis in pets

Conjunctivitis is one of the most common eye conditions that we see at Woofpurnay Veterinary Hospital. It can be quite painful and irritating for your pet and can lead to further complications if left untreated. So what are the common signs to look out for and how is conjunctivitis treated?

What is conjunctivitis in pets

Conjunctivitis refers to the inflammation of the conjunctiva membrane. The conjunctiva is a mucous membrane that covers the inside of the eyelids and the whites of the eye. In a healthy pet, this membrane has a pale, pink colour and isn’t readily visible. When conjunctivitis occurs, the conjunctiva membranes appear red and swollen.

What causes conjunctivitis in pets

Conjunctivitis can be caused by a variety of issues such as viral infections, allergies, trauma to the eye, irritation from foreign bodies, breed specific conditions, obstructed tear ducts, eye disorders, eyelid abnormalities, tear film deficiencies, tumors of the eye area, parasite infections or underlying eye conditions.

What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?

“The most common symptoms of conjunctivitis include discharge from the eye (cloudy, green or yellow), squinting or excessive blinking and redness or swelling around the eye”.

Your pet may also experience eye pain or irritation, which can lead to rubbing their eyes with their paw or on the carpet. Other clinical signs that can occur with conjunctivitis include nasal discharge, sneezing and coughing.

Conjunctivitis generally involves both eyes but can affect just one eye in certain conditions.

How is conjunctivitis treated?

Treatment usually involves the application of eye drops or ointment. These must be applied directly to the eye itself, not the outside of the eyelids. Please speak to your vet if you have any questions about administering eye drops. Sometimes oral or injectable medications may also be required depending on the specific cause.

In more serious cases, sedation or surgery may be required, such as to remove a foreign object or to treat eyelid abnormalities or a blocked tear duct.

An Elizabethan collar may also be needed to prevent your pet from scratching their eyes and causing further irritation.

This condition can be quite painful for your pet and can lead to further complications such as inflammation inside the eye or self-trauma to the area if left untreated. It is important to have this checked out by your vet as soon as you notice any symptoms.