When your pet’s eye looks red, it can be a cause for concern. Red eyes in pets can be a symptom of mild irritation to something more serious. Recognizing the potential causes and knowing when to seek help is essential to keeping your pet healthy and comfortable.

Common Causes of Red Eyes in Pets

1. Allergies

Pets can experience allergic reactions to substances in their environment, just like humans. Common allergens include pollen, dust, mold, and certain chemicals or cleaning products. When exposed to these allergens, your pet’s eyes may become red, itchy, and watery.

  • Symptoms: Redness, watery discharge, frequent blinking, pawing at the face.
  • How to Address: If you suspect allergies, it’s essential to identify and eliminate the allergen from your pet’s environment. Antihistamines or specific eye drops can help soothe those eyes.

2. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, pink tissue that surrounds the white part of the eye. This condition can be caused by bacterial or viral infections, allergens, or irritants.

  • Symptoms: Redness, swelling, discharge, squinting, sensitivity to light.
  • How to Address: Pink eye can be contagious, especially in cases caused by infection. A visit to your veterinarian is important for diagnosis and treatment.

3. Foreign Bodies

Pets are curious creatures and sometimes get debris like dust, sand, or plant matter in their eyes. Even small objects can get into the eye and cause irritation, redness and discomfort.

  • Symptoms: Persistent blinking, squinting, pawing at the eye, excessive tearing.
  • How to Address: If you suspect a very small foreign object is in your pet’s eye, like some dust, you can try to flush it out with a store bought sterile saline solution. If the redness persists, or a larger object is seen or suspected to be in the eye, contact your veterinary hospital right away to have the object removed.

4. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a serious condition caused by increased pressure within the eye. It can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. This condition often develops gradually and may not be immediately noticeable until the symptoms are severe.

  • Symptoms: Redness, cloudiness, enlarged eye, vision loss, sensitivity to light.
  • How to Address: If your pet is showing signs of glaucoma, it’s critical to seek immediate care. Glaucoma is a medical emergency, and treatment may include medication to reduce eye pressure or surgery in advanced cases.

5. Corneal Ulcers

Corneal ulcers are painful abrasions on the surface of the eye. They often result from trauma, such as a scratch or infection. Pets suffering from corneal ulcers may exhibit pain, squinting, and excessive tearing.

  • Symptoms: Redness, squinting, discharge, visible cloudiness or white spot on the cornea.
  • How to Address: Corneal ulcers require immediate veterinary attention. Treatment at Skyway Animal Hospital may involve antibiotic eye drops, pain management, and in severe cases, surgery.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

While some eye issues may resolve on their own, certain symptoms warrant an immediate visit to your veterinarian. Contact us if you observe any of the following:

  • Persistent redness in the eye that lasts more than 48 hours.
  • Thick or colored discharge from the eye.
  • Visible cloudiness, white spots, or swelling in the eye.
  • Your pet is squinting, pawing at their eye, or showing signs of pain.
  • Sudden changes in vision or signs of blindness.

It’s always better to err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure about the severity of your pet’s eye problem, Skyway Animal Hospital can perform a thorough eye exam to diagnose the issue and provide appropriate treatment.

Preventing Eye Issues in Pets

Preventing eye problems involves routine care and environmental management. By staying proactive, you can minimize your pet’s risk of developing eye conditions.

1. Regular Eye Check-Ups

Just as regular vet visits are essential for overall health, eye check-ups are crucial for maintaining your pet’s ocular health. During a routine wellness exam our veterinarians will assess your pet’s eyes for any signs of infection, injury, or underlying disease.

2. Keep Their Environment Clean

Dust, debris, and allergens can irritate your pet’s eyes, leading to redness and discomfort. Keeping your living area clean, washing your pet’s bedding regularly, and grooming them regularly can help reduce their exposure to these irritants.

3. Protect Their Eyes

If your pet is prone to eye injuries—especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors in sandy, dusty, or wooded areas—consider using protective eyewear designed for pets. You can also keep your pet indoors during high-pollen days to minimize allergic reactions.

Don’t Wait When It Comes To Eye Health

Red eyes in pets can indicate a wide range of issues, from mild irritations to serious health concerns. Understanding the potential causes and knowing when to seek veterinary care is crucial for keeping your pet comfortable and healthy. If you notice any signs of redness or discomfort in your pet’s eyes, don’t hesitate to contact us.