How to Tell if Your Pet Has An Eye Infection
At University Parkway Animal Hospital in Jackson, Tn, we see many pets with eye infections. An eye infection is uncomfortable for your pet. They can also cause permanent damage if they go untreated. Knowing what to look for and when to seek treatment can keep your pet healthy.
Pet Eye Infections
The signs of an eye infection in your pet are like the ones encountered by humans. However, your four-legged friend cannot tell you when there's a problem, so it's important to keep an eye on their eyes.
Signs of a pet eye infection include:
- eye discharge
- swollen or puffy eyes
- frequent pawing or rubbing
- red eyes
When to Visit the Vet
If your pet is experiencing signs of an eye infection, you should visit your veterinarian. Conjunctivitis can be caused by an infection, and this usually requires veterinary treatment. However, it can also be caused by allergies. Eye irritation caused by allergies will usually clear up on its own, but it is difficult to distinguish between them without an exam. Treatment for bacterial, fungal, or viral infections may include eye drops and oral medications.
Scratches on the eye or a foreign object in the eye can also cause the symptoms of an eye infection in your pet. Your veterinarian will examine the eye. Scratches can become infected easily. If your pet does not have an infection but has scratches on the eye, they may use preventative medications. If your pet has a foreign body in the eye, they may need general anesthesia and surgery to remove the object.
What You Can Do
Not all pet eye infections can be prevented, and some breeds are more prone to developing infections. Keeping your pet out of areas with lots of dust or dirt can help prevent eye infections. You also must keep your pet's eyes clean. Use a wet washcloth and clean the area around the eye. Do not rub the eye itself, because this can cause scratches.
Call University Parkway Animal Hospital Today!
If your pet is showing signs of an eye infection, prompt care is important for the health and safety of your pet. Make an appointment with University Parkway Animal Hospital in Jackson, TN. The veterinarian will perform an exam and determine the best course of treatment.-+