Eye diseases in dogs and cats: how to recognize and treat them

Sight is one of the main senses that, since ancient times, has enabled humans and animals to analyze their surroundings and assess possible dangerous situations. In particular, eyes, thanks to their specific structure, are able to transform electrical and light impulses picked up in the surrounding environment into sharp images. For this reason, it is important to take good care of them and monitor their health periodically.

In particular, when we talk about eye diseases in dogs and cats, we refer to all those conditions, more or less severe, that reduce the efficiency of vision. From minor redness to conjunctivitis and cataracts, these conditions require prompt intervention because, if underestimated, they risk compromising the performance of the entire apparatus and even lead to blindness.

We at Lory Veterinary Projects care about the health conditions of all furry animals, which is why we strive to provide tools and environments that promote their physical and psychological well-being. Below we list the main disorders that can affect the eyes of dogs and cats and some tips on how to strengthen the entire visual system.

The most common eye diseases in dogs and cats

To think that the eyes of canids and felines are the same is a big mistake. Although they both have dichromatic vision ranging from blue-violet to yellow, they in fact have very different characteristics. In particular, cats have lowervisual acuity, fusion frequency, accommodation capacity and visual field than dogs. In contrast, they have significantly more developed three-dimensional and low-light vision . For this reason, it is important to make only individualized diagnoses.

To help the trusted veterinarian in early recognition of the disorder, we suggest regular checkups, especially at home, for preventive purposes. Keeping one’s pets monitored could be crucial when analyzing and determining a complete and accurate treatment. Specifically, when excessive tearing, opaque films over the eyes, crusts and loss of hair in the area surrounding them are present, it is always best to make a targeted examination.

Common complaints they may present with include: conjunctivitis (reddened eye and increased secretion);corneal ulcer (tearing and discomfort in the presence of light sources); glaucoma (dilated pupil and tendency to keep the eyes closed);uveitis (redness and possible squinting); and cataracts (opacification of the lens and decreased vision).

Tips for preventing eye diseases in dogs and cats

When it comes to oculopathies, it is important to identify their nature early on. Determining whether they are genetic/hereditary or congenital in origin is very helpful in understanding how to treat them and behave in the case of mating with other carrier animals. In general, when faced with diseases of the first group, one must put into account that that particular disorder is present more or less asymptomatically and requires periodic checkups.

Eye diseases that belong to the second category, on the other hand, can be avoided or contained through proper prevention. The first tip, as well as the one considered the simplest and most immediate, is to always keep your pets’ eyes clean. By observing daily for the presence or absence of irritations and infections, it is possible to limit their proliferation and prevent them from impairing the use of the entire apparatus in the long run.

Another aspect to consider is to provide your four-legged friends with a healthy and balanced diet. Avoiding feeding high amounts of grains and other allergens greatly reduces the risk of contracting infections. In addition, choosing dehydrated and natural foods (i.e., without added additives, preservatives, and dyes) boosts immune defenses and counteracts the proliferation of viruses and bacteria.

Veterinary tools to treat eye disorders

Veterinary eye surgery is a specialized field that requires advanced training and the use of appropriate instruments. Since these are small-organ surgeries, it is essential that all equipment within the practice is adequate and compliant. That is why it is advisable to rely on a specialized team to choose the equipment with which to perform safe operations on animals.

The first step is to conduct a thorough and thorough eye examination. Using slit lamps that can detect individual abnormalities, tonometers that detect eye pressure, and ophthalmoscopes to observe the retina and ocular fundus, it is possible to determine the nature of your four-legged friends’ ailments. Using our ozone sterilization station, we ensure thorough decontamination of all instruments used and fight the proliferation of germs and bacteria.

In addition, in order to make dogs and cats comfortable before, during, and after the visit or operation, it is essential to choose the most suitable support. With our wide range of electric and hydraulic tables, we are able to meet the needs of all our clients and ensure a pleasant stay for patients. Finally, if a post-operative stay is required, at Lory Veterinary Projects you can choose from many types of cages and make your surgery a safe and welcoming place.

If you are considering purchasing specific tools and products to treat eye disorders in dogs and cats, rely on our specialized team. Schedule an appointment now or fill out the contact form on the dedicated page.