Red eye in dogs: Causes and effective treatments

Red eye, also known as pink eye, refers to the condition where the mucous membranes of a dog's eyes appear pink, red, inflamed, or sore, causing discomfort to your canine companion. While common, red eye can arise from a variety of causes ranging from minor irritations to serious health concerns.

This guide explores the causes of red eye in dogs, helping you identify potential issues and understand what can be done to provide your pet with relief and proper care.

What causes red eye in dogs?

Red eye arises from inflammation or irritation of the eye tissues, often linked to enlarged or congested blood vessels. Certain breeds with prominent eyes, such as the pug and other brachycephalic breeds, are especially susceptible due to their eye structure, making them more prone to injury or debris irritation. Common causes include:

• Eye injuries, like scratches from other pets.
• Allergies causing inflammation and itchiness.
• Foreign bodies such as grass seeds trapped in the eye.
• Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva).
• Conformational eye problems like entropion (inward rolling eyelids) or distichiasis (extra eyelashes rubbing the eye).
• Bacterial, viral, or fungal eye infections.
• Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, commonly called "dry eye".
• Glaucoma and other internal eye diseases.
• Eye cancers in some cases.

Narrowing down the problem

If only one eye is red and sore, it often points to trauma or a trapped object such as a grass seed or scratch. Your dog might squint or scratch the eye persistently. It is important to have a veterinarian examine the eye promptly in such cases.

If both eyes are affected, the cause is more likely to be systemic, such as allergies, dry eye, or infectious conjunctivitis, as these tend to affect both eyes simultaneously.

Vet examination typically involves using an ophthalmoscope and possibly conducting additional tests to diagnose the exact cause and tailor treatment accordingly.

How can red eye in dogs be treated?

Treatment depends on diagnosing the underlying cause of the eye redness. Common eye issues and their management options include:

Conjunctivitis

Usually treated effectively with antibiotic eye creams. While conjunctivitis can be unsightly and uncomfortable, it is generally a minor condition that responds well to treatment.

Conformational eye problems

Conditions like entropion or distichiasis cause painful rubbing, risking long-term damage. Medical management may control infections but surgery is often necessary to correct these structural issues and prevent chronic problems.

Eye trauma

Superficial injuries such as scratches generally heal with topical antibiotics. Severe injuries may require temporary eyelid suturing to protect the eye during healing.

Eye infections

Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections require targeted treatments, including antibiotics or antifungal medications, depending on the cause identified by your vet.

Foreign bodies

Removal of debris like grass seeds is critical to relieve irritation. Flushing the eye with saline and antibiotic treatment if there is infection promotes healing.

Dry eye (Keratoconjunctivitis sicca)

Occurs when tear production is inadequate, causing redness and irritation. Treatment involves lubricating eye drops or medications like cyclosporine to stimulate tear production.

Eye cancers

While alarming, many eye tumours can be treated effectively if caught early. Diagnosis involves biopsy and your vet will guide on the best treatment plan.

Preventive care and responsible pet ownership

Regular eye checks, protecting your dog's eyes from environmental irritants, and prompt attention to any eye changes are essential. For brachycephalic breeds especially, careful management and regular vet care are important to prevent chronic eye issues.

Always refrain from using over-the-counter human eye treatments and consult your vet before applying anything to your dog's eyes to avoid further harm.

When to seek emergency help

If your dog's eyes show persistent redness, pain, swelling, discharge, or they are squinting, seek veterinary care promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications and preserve your dog's vision and comfort.

In conclusion, red eye in dogs is a common but varied condition. Many cases relate to allergies or minor irritations and can be treated effectively, while others require urgent veterinary intervention. Caring for your dog's eye health with informed vigilance helps ensure they stay happy and healthy.