Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or KCS, is a condition that affects both cats and dogs. The eyes become excessively dry and inflamed due to a lack of tear production. The most common treatment for the condition is an eye-drop medication called cyclosporine.
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Function
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KCS usually occurs because an animal's immune system malfunctions and attacks the glands that produce tears. Cyclosporine eye drops suppress an animal's immune system, which stops this attack.
Dosage
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In most cases, veterinarians recommend one to two drops of cyclsporine eye drops twice or three times per day, reports Mar Vista Animal Medical Center.
Cost
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One 15 mL bottle of one percent cyclosporine was sold for around $30, while one 15 mL bottle of two percent cyclosporine was sold for around $50 as of February 2010, reports DrsFosterSmith.com. The high cost of the drug may preclude some pet owners from using it to treat their pets.
Risks
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Some animals develop eye redness or itching from cyclosporine eye drops and may scratch or rub at their eyes after receiving a dose of the drops, according to DrsFosterSmith.com. Infrequently, dogs develop severe allergic reactions to the drug, causing shortness of breath, hives, vomiting, shock and even coma.
Considerations
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Cyclosporine is less likely to be an effective treatment for KCS in cats, explains Mar Vista Animal Medical Center.
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