When Is A Sore Eye in Pets an Emergency?

Eye problems are very common in our pet dogs and cats and are a frequent reason for veterinary visits. From allergic conjunctivitis to glaucoma, many conditions can affect the eyes, and recognising when a sore eye becomes an emergency is vital for preserving your pet's sight and comfort. This guide will help you identify urgent signs, common symptoms, and provide useful home care advice until veterinary help is available.

1. Recognising Common Eye Symptoms

Sticky or Gunky Eyes

Sticky eyes can indicate irritation or infection. Young cats and dogs may develop bacterial or viral conjunctivitis causing discharge and slight redness. Allergic conjunctivitis, similar to hayfever, leads to itchy, watery eyes. Environmental factors like dust can also cause contact conjunctivitis.

Some dog breeds with hairy faces or unusual facial structure naturally have more eye discharge, but persistent or worsening symptoms need attention. If sticky eyes appear alone, observe for three days. If you notice pain, redness, lethargy, or if your pet holds its eye closed, visit your vet immediately.

Holding Eye Closed (Blepharospasm)

This is a reflex indicating eye pain. It may signal serious conditions like scratches, foreign bodies, or infections. Prompt veterinary assessment is crucial, as untreated causes can lead to permanent vision loss.

Redness of the Eye

Redness may occur in different eye parts. Red, swollen eyelids or third eyelid often indicate conjunctivitis, often treatable with topical medications. If the white of the eye appears red, it usually signifies pain. Blood seen in or coming from the eye requires emergency veterinary care to prevent sight damage.

Unequal Pupil Sizes

Pupil size should respond equally to changes in light. Unequal pupils may indicate uveitis or glaucoma—both painful and sight-threatening conditions needing urgent specialist veterinary care.

Growths on the Eye

Masses on the eyelid or third eyelid gland prolapse might require surgery but are rarely emergency cases. You can observe these for a couple of days unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

Eye Prolapse

When the eyeball protrudes beyond the eyelids, it is an emergency due to risk of optic nerve damage and blindness. This is often caused by trauma and requires immediate veterinary attention.

Changes in Eye Colour

Older dogs may develop a benign blue-grey haze called nuclear sclerosis that rarely affects vision. Cataracts and bleeding inside the eye are serious and require prompt veterinary assessment, especially if your pet is unwell.

2. When Is a Sore Eye an Emergency?

A sore eye becomes an emergency when you see any of these signs:

• Sudden blindness or vision changes.
• Severe eye pain or distress signs like excessive pawing or hiding.
• Visible trauma such as cloudiness, bulging, swelling, bleeding, or discolouration.
• Foreign object in the eye or deep surface injury.
• Eye prolapse or severe swelling.
• Thick, coloured discharge indicating infection.

If in doubt, act quickly and consult your vet or an emergency veterinary clinic. Early intervention can save your pet's sight and reduce suffering.

3. Home Care and First Aid for Eye Injuries

If your pet has mild discharge or irritation, you can gently clean around the eyes with damp cotton wool using cooled previously boiled water. Avoid using salt water or any medications unless prescribed by your vet, as these can sometimes irritate further.

Keep your pet calm, avoid rubbing or scratching the eye, and reduce bright light exposure. Never attempt to remove embedded objects or apply pressure to the eye. Immediate vet care is essential for suspected trauma, bleeding, or sudden symptoms.

For breeds with long facial hair causing irritation, careful grooming around the eyes can improve comfort. Regular checks help you spot any early signs of eye problems.

4. Summary and Next Steps

Eye symptoms in pets range from mild to emergencies that threaten vision. Understanding the signs that require urgent veterinary attention helps protect your pet’s sight and wellbeing. Always err on the side of caution and contact your vet if you observe signs like severe pain, cloudiness, bleeding, or eye prolapse.

Routine care, timely diagnosis, and professional treatment are key to successful outcomes. Caring responsibly for your pet's eyes improves their quality of life and prevents unnecessary suffering.

Remember, for mild symptoms without pain or behavioural change, you can monitor briefly but book a vet appointment within a couple of days. For emergencies, don’t hesitate to seek immediate professional care.