Eye issues in dogs can be worrisome to pet owners and require prompt attention by a veterinarian. Dog conjunctivitis is a common eye issue that can cause irritation, redness, or discharge. Many pet owners wonder if this is a medical emergency or can wait until the next day. This blog post will discuss the symptoms of dog conjunctivitis and whether or not it is an emergency.
The conjunctiva is a thin membrane that covers the white of the eye and the inner surfaces of the eyelids. When the conjunctiva becomes inflamed, it can cause a condition called conjunctivitis, more commonly known as “pink eye”. Dog conjunctivitis can be caused by both bacterial and viral infections, allergies, foreign objects lodged in the eye, trauma, and other causes. Symptoms of dog conjunctivitis include redness and swelling of the conjunctiva, excessive tearing, eye discharge, irritation, rubbing at the eyes, and sensitivity
What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis in dogs?
An uncomfortable condition called conjunctivitis can make your dog paw at their eye, blink, or squint. Additionally, you might see your dog’s eye discharge clear or green, or your dog’s eyelids, eye whites, or surrounding area may appear red and swollen.
While allergies, viral infections, or other conditions can cause conjunctivitis, it frequently begins in one eye and quickly spreads to the other through contamination. However, in some cases, both eyes may be affected from the beginning.
Even if symptoms appear to be very mild, if your dog is exhibiting conjunctivitis symptoms, you should call your veterinarian right away. Left untreated conjunctivitis can lead to permanent eye damage.
Can I get conjunctivitis from my dog?
While it is unlikely that you will contract conjunctivitis from your canine friend, it is possible if a parasite like roundworms is the root of your dog’s eye condition.
How can you tell if conjunctivitis is viral or bacterial?
Viral conjunctivitis usually lasts longer than bacterial conjunctivitis. After 3 to 4 days, if conjunctivitis does not go away with antibiotics, the doctor should consider the possibility that the infection is viral. Eyelid matting and mucopurulent discharge are symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis.
FAQ
How urgent is conjunctivitis in dogs?
Important. Consult your veterinarian right away if you suspect that your dog has conjunctivitis, even if the symptoms are mild. If the condition is not treated right away, permanent damage may result.
How long can conjunctivitis go untreated in dogs?
Depending on the condition, it could take anywhere from a few days for minor irritations to three weeks for viral conjunctivitis. The majority of dogs with pink eye will fully recover, but in rare instances, some dogs may experience lifelong secondary symptoms, including a permanent loss of vision.
When should I go to the vet for conjunctivitis?
Call your veterinarian at the first indication of any apparent eye condition. Conjunctivitis can permanently damage the cornea if it becomes severe. Medical attention is required as this condition won’t go away on its own.
Is conjunctivitis in dogs lethal?
The conjunctiva membrane, which covers the front of the eye and the eyelids, becomes inflamed when a person has conjunctivitis, an eye condition. Eyesight is one of a pet’s most vital senses, so even though conjunctivitis is not fatal, it should be treated as soon as possible by a veterinarian.