It is crucial for your Pet’s vision that we detect and treat eye problems quickly. Corneal trauma, dry eye, glaucoma, cherry eye, infections, cataracts, and other ocular problems are common. We can test your Pet’s eyes for scratches, dryness, abnormal eye lash growth, and excess pressure easily and safely. We start with physical and ophthalmic exam, and proceed with tests. Fluorescent stain sticks to corneal scratches. Tear strips accurately measure tear production. The pressure test, performed with a device called a tonometer, is also quick not painful. Occasionally, sedation and corneal desensitizing drops are needed. In some cases, the Doctors may need to dilate your Pet’s pupils to perform retinal exam. Uveitis (inflammation within the eye) can be caused by other diseases in the body, and laboratory blood tests may be sent out. Cat’s have a unique list of eye diseases, including viral, as well. While we can perform numerous medical and surgical ophthalmic procedures here at the Hospital, some cases will be referred to the Veterinary Ophthalmologist.
Majority of ocular conditions require immediate detection and therapy. If not treated quickly, corneal abrasions and ulcers can deepen, and perforation may occur. Cherry eye can lead to dry eye, necessitating life long therapy. Glaucoma can cause permanent vision loss or even blindness. Cataracts are not always limited to Senior Pets, and can cause painful inflammation inside the eye. We recommend that breeds that are prone to developing dry eye, glaucoma, cataracts, and other problems come in for regular exams and intraocular pressure measurements, so we can monitor and begin treatment before any problem becomes irreversible.
Call us right away if you notice any of the following problems in either or both of your Pet’s eyes: squinting, tearing, rubbing of the eye; dilated (enlarged) pupils, clouding of the cornea (the normally clear outer layer of the eye); red or bloodshot eyes; one eye protruding or appearing larger than the other. Because most ocular conditions, including glaucoma, are painful, your Pet may react by rubbing or pawing at the eyes or rubbing his or her head against the floor or furniture more than normal. Develop a sense for the normal eye appearance for your Pet, so you can report abnormal findings right away.