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Conjunctivitis

A representation of Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is a common eye condition in dogs that can cause redness, swelling and discharge from the eyes. In this blog post, you will learn about the causes, symptoms and treatment options for conjunctivitis in dogs.

What is conjunctivitis?

The conjunctiva is a thin layer that covers the white of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It protects the eye from infections, foreign bodies and dehydration. When the conjunctiva becomes inflamed or irritated, it is called conjunctivitis.

What are the causes of conjunctivitis in dogs?

There are various factors that can trigger conjunctivitis in dogs, for example

  • Allergies: pollen, dust, mold or other allergens can cause an allergic reaction in your dog's eyes.
  • Infections: Bacteria, viruses or fungi can infect the conjunctiva and lead to a purulent or mucous inflammation.
  • Injuries: Scratches, bites or foreign bodies can injure the conjunctiva and lead to a bloody or watery inflammation.
  • Diseases: Some diseases such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases or tumors can affect the conjunctiva and lead to chronic or recurrent inflammation.

What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis in dogs?

Symptoms of conjunctivitis in dogs can vary depending on the cause and severity, but some common signs include

  • Redness and swelling of the eyes or eyelids
  • Discharge from the eyes, which may be clear, yellowish, greenish or bloody
  • Itching, burning or rubbing of the eyes
  • Sticky or crusty eyelids
  • Sensitivity to light or increased blinking
  • Restricted vision or cloudy cornea

How is conjunctivitis treated in dogs?

The treatment of conjunctivitis in dogs depends on the underlying cause. In most cases, your vet will prescribe eye drops or ointments containing either antibiotics, antihistamines, corticosteroids or artificial tears. These are intended to fight the infection, soothe the inflammation and moisturize the eye. You should use the medication exactly as instructed by your vet and have regular checks to see if your dog's condition is improving.

In some cases, it may be necessary to remove or treat the cause of the conjunctivitis. For example:

  • If your dog is allergic to something, you should try to avoid or reduce contact with the allergen.
  • If your dog has an eye injury, you should put a protective collar on it to stop it scratching or rubbing.
  • If your dog suffers from a condition that affects the conjunctiva, you should give him appropriate treatment.

How can you prevent conjunctivitis in dogs?

There are some measures you can take to reduce the risk of conjunctivitis in your dog, for example:

  • Keep your dog's eyes clean and dry. You can wipe them with a soft cloth or gauze if they are dirty.
  • Trim the hair around your dog's eyes regularly so that it doesn't get into the eye or irritate it.
  • Have your dog vaccinated and dewormed regularly to prevent infections.
  • Take your dog to the vet at least once a year to have his eyes checked.

Conjunctivitis is an unpleasant condition for your dog, but with the right treatment and care, you can help him to recover quickly. If you notice that your dog is showing one or more of the above symptoms, you should not hesitate to visit your vet.

The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.

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