The Veterinary Hospital knows just how uncomfortable and painful an eye infection can be for your pet. What's even worse, eye infections can be a secondary symptom of a more serious issue, and we recommend having your pet seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible when an eye infection is suspected. We have compiled the below information to help you better understand pet eye infections, as well as the symptoms associated with this issue.
Symptoms of Pet Eye Infections
Symptoms of an eye infection can vary depending on what is causing the infection. With that said, most eye infections will have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Redness of or surrounding their eye
- Watering discharge
- Excess tears
- Swelling of or around their eye
- Holding their eye closed
- Smelly, thick discharge
- Blinking or squinting
- Rubbing or pawing at their eye
- Light sensitivity
Types of Pet Eye Infections
While there are various types of eye infections, the most common types are:
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
- Tear gland issues
- Cornea inflammation
- Eyelid abnormalities
- Uveitis (inflammation of the inner structures of the eye)
Causes of Eye Infections
There are a wide array of things that can lead to eye infections, and your pet may even come into contact with some of these culprits regularly. The most common causes of eye infections are:
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Allergens and irritants
- Parasites
- Cuts or scratches to the cornea
- Fungal spores
- Trauma
- Debris and foreign matter
Knowing the cause of the eye infection is important as it will not only guide the veterinarian to the proper treatment but will also help to prevent the infection from reoccurring.
Eye Infection Treatment
The treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the infection. That is why your pet must be seen by a veterinarian. For bacterial infections, the doctor will typically prescribe eye drops and antibiotics. For infections caused by debris or foreign matter, the vet will have to remove the offending matter. This may require sedation of your pet. Allergies are generally treated with an antihistamine, while blocked tear ducts may require surgery.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Veterinarian in Eugene, OR
An eye infection is not something you can treat at home, and your pet will need to be seen by a Eugene, OR veterinarian as soon as possible. If you suspect your pet is dealing with an eye infection, reach out to The Veterinary Hospital today by calling us at (541) 688-1835.