My Chihuahua Has a Sty on the Eye

A Chihuahua, like any dog, can develop a sty on his eye just like a human can. This can be very uncomfortable for the dog and the owner will want to do something to help alleviate its pain. Fortunately, a sty can be treated effectively with household items, without posing any health threat to the animal. A sty on the outside of the eyelid is most common and can be treated with home remedies. A sty on the inside of the eyelid is more serious and should be cared for by a veterinarian.

  1. Causes

    • A sty is simply an inflammation of the Chihuahua's eyelids stemming from the base of the eyelashes; this is caused by the bacteria staphylococcus. The area around the sty will be tender and may cause discomfort. A sty can appear in isolated instances or as a group. A Chihuahua's immune system will be able to fight off the bacterial infection on its own, but certain steps can be taken to speed recovery.

    Treatment for a Sty on the Outer Eyelid

    • Soak a tea bag in warm water. Take the tea bag and apply it directly to your Chihuahua's sty and surrounding area. Hold it on the sty for a few moments to allow it to seep in. Perform this a few times a day until the sty drains and begins to subside. Continue to clean the area around the sty with warm water for a few days to reduce the chance of the infection reoccurring.

    Treatment for a Sty on the Inner Eyelid

    • While less common, a sty can form inside the eyelid. These are more dangerous and should be drained by a professional to minimize the chances of damage to the eyes. Do not try to treat this condition at home. Consult a veterinarian about your Chihuahua as soon as possible.

    Diagnosis

    • A sty is a relatively minor ailment for your Chihuahua but sometimes a more serious condition can be mistaken for it. An eye tumor starts out very similar to a sty, as do cataracts. If the condition does not respond to home remedies within a week, it's time to consult a veterinarian for further diagnosis.