If left untreated, pet eye infections can lead to more serious health issues in your pet. Bring your pet to us here at Pershing Animal Hospital in Hyde Park, IL. We can help cure the infection. Pet eye infections can range from mild to severe, but either way, it is important to have your pet checked out at an animal hospital to prevent something more serious from happening and also to give proper treatment to your pet.
Causes & Signs of Eye Infections
Bacterial eye infections are way more common than viral infections. These types of infections usually result from a scratch or eye ulcer.
Some other the reasons why eye infections happen in pets include:
- Allergies
- Blocked tear ducts
- Corneal issues
Cats can develop eye infections through infections such as calicivirus, herpes, allergies, and even chlamydia.
The signs and symptoms of eye infections will differ based on the cause of the infection. However, any of these signs may indicate that your pet has an eye infection:
- Swelling
- Redness around the eyes
- Pawing or rubbing the eyes
- Cloudy iris
- Thick or runny green or yellow discharge
Contact your vet or bring your pet into an animal hospital right away if your pet experiences any of the above symptoms.
Diagnosis
A comprehensive exam will need to be performed by your vet to see how serious the eye infection actually is. Be ready to discuss any of the symptoms that you have noticed as well. Any changes in behavior should also be mentioned to your vet so that he or she can diagnose the infection correctly.
If you do not seek treatment for your pet’s eye infection, it could potentially develop into a more serious health condition. Some cases may only be treatable with surgery. If after two days symptoms do not disappear, it is important to visit your vet and delay waiting any longer.
Until you bring your pet in to see the vet, you can provide supportive care at home for your pet. Non-medicated sterile saline rinses are beneficial for flushing out the eye. However, this should only be used as a short-term solution. Do not use human eye drops in your pets’ eyes. A warm towel can also help to clean away any discharge from the corners of your pet’s eyes.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Veterinarian Today
If you are located in or near Hyde Park, IL, call us today at Pershing Animal Hospital to schedule an appointment.
