Eye Problems

In general, eye problems require immediate attention to prevent damage from self trauma and permanent damage that can affect vision.  Eye injuries are often very painful, including superficial scratches to the cornea.

If a dog or cat is squinting, rubbing at the eye, rubbing the eye along things or producing much discharge, patient needs help ASAP. 

A very 'bloodshot' or red eye, one that seems to be cloudy or one that seems to be bulging requires equally urgent attention.  These symptoms can be due to foreign objects, superficial trauma, allergy, infection, glaucoma, etc.

In certain dogs and certain types of trauma, the eye can be displaced from the socket;  this is called a prolapse.  If treated early and there is no penetrating wound to the globe, early repair can allow full and normal function. 

In some cases, nerve or muscle damage will occur that may or may not affect the function (whether he or she can see, make tears, or close the lid properly) and which may, or may not, affect the cosmetic appearance of the eye.

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