Medical conditions in dogs
What is Conjunctivitis?
The conjunctiva is a thin, transparent membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelids and covers the white part of the eye (sclera). Conjunctivitis occurs when this membrane becomes inflamed, often leading to redness, swelling, discharge, and discomfort.
Conjunctivitis
Types of conjunctivitis in dogs
Conjunctivitis can be classified into different types based on its cause:
- Infectious Conjunctivitis: Caused by bacteria, viruses, or other infectious agents.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: Triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or certain foods.
- Irritant Conjunctivitis: Caused by irritants like smoke, dust, or chemicals.
- Conjunctivitis associated with other eye conditions: Such as dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) or glaucoma.
Symptoms and signs
How can I tell if my dog has conjunctivitis?
Recognising the signs of conjunctivitis is important for seeking timely veterinary care. Look for:
- Redness: The white of the eye appears red or bloodshot.
- Swelling: The conjunctiva may appear swollen or puffy.
- Discharge: Watery, mucous, or pus-like discharge from the eye(s).
- Squinting or Blinking: Excessive blinking or squinting due to discomfort.
- Pawing at the Eye: Rubbing or scratching at the eye.
- Sensitivity to Light: Discomfort in bright light.
- Third Eyelid Protrusion: The third eyelid (nictitating membrane) may become more prominent.
If you observe any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian promptly.
Diagnosis
How is conjunctivitis in dogs diagnosed?
Your veterinarian will conduct a thorough eye examination to diagnose conjunctivitis:
- Ophthalmic Examination: Visual inspection of the eye and surrounding structures.
- Fluorescein Staining: To check for corneal ulcers or scratches.
- Schirmer Tear Test: To measure tear production (important for diagnosing dry eye).
- Cytology: Examination of cells from the conjunctiva to identify the cause of inflammation.
- Culture and Sensitivity: To identify the specific bacteria causing infection (if applicable).
Causes
What are the causes of conjunctivitis in dogs?
The causes of conjunctivitis vary depending on the type:
- Infectious Conjunctivitis: Bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: Allergens like pollen, dust mites, or certain foods.
- Irritant Conjunctivitis: Irritants like smoke, dust, or chemicals.
- Underlying Eye Conditions: Dry eye, glaucoma, or other eye diseases.
- Foreign Bodies: Hair, dirt, or other foreign objects in the eye.
- Trauma: Injury to the eye.
Treatment
What are the treatment options for conjunctivitis in dogs?
Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the conjunctivitis:
- Antibiotic or Antiviral Eye Drops or Ointments: To treat infections.
- Antihistamines or Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation and allergic reactions.
- Artificial Tears: To lubricate the eyes and manage dry eye.
- Warm Compresses: To soothe the eyes and remove discharge.
- Flushing the Eye: To remove foreign bodies or irritants.
- Treatment of Underlying Conditions: Addressing any underlying eye diseases or systemic conditions.
It’s essential to work closely with your veterinarian to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that’s tailored to your dog’s specific needs. Regular check-ups and monitoring are crucial to ensure your dog’s comfort and well-being, but with prompt veterinary care and a little bit of patience, they’ll be back to their happy selves in no time.
