Dogs can suffer from a variety of conditions affecting the eyes. While some of the names may be similar to conditions that affect people, the actual condition may be different. Understanding a few of the more common conditions of the eyes can help owners detect problems and get their dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible.
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Dry Eye
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Known in veterinary medicine as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KSA,) this condition occurs in dogs who are not producing sufficient amounts of tears. Dry eye can occur for a variety of reasons such as an eye infection to the tear glands, chronic eye infections or injuries to the eyes. Symptoms of dry eye include a thick discharge and secondary infections due to the eye's inability to flush out bacteria and foreign particles. Treatment involves replacement therapy through eye drops.
Cherry Eye
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Cherry eye occurs when the tear gland located in the third eyelid protrudes out of it's normally invisible position in the corner of the eye. Certain breeds, such as the Boston Terrier and the Lhasa Apso, are prone to this condition. Fortunately, cherry eye can be treated through surgery. Surgery involves replacing the gland back into it's proper position. This is usually done through the use of sutures which hold the gland in place, preventing re-emergence. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent or treat any infections after surgery that may have occurred while the gland was out of place.
Cataracts
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Cataracts occur in a dog when the fibers of the lens breaks down, causing a loss of vision. This condition gives the eye an appearance similar to crushed ice. Most dogs develop cataracts as part of growing old and any breed of dog can be affected. However, cataracts can also be inherited and become apparent in a dog as early as a few weeks after birth. Currently, the only effective treatment consists of removing the lens surgically.
Corneal Dystrophy
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This condition usually affects both eyes and is an inherited disease. Corneal dystrophy can affect any breed of dog, but is common in certain breeds, such as Airedale Terriers and Shetland Sheepdogs. Corneal dystrophy occurs when cholesterol deposits occur in the cornea. These deposits can make the eye appear to be white, hazy or blue in color and can be located anywhere in the cornea. Surgery is an option for this condition, however, it is not an effective treatment because the cholesterol deposits reappear shortly after surgery.
Blue Eye
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Blue eye is a condition where the corneas become cloudy due to an infection of an adenovirus, more commonly referred to as hepatitis. When this condition occurs, the corneas will display a blue haze. Hepatitis affects other parts of the body, so additional symptoms can include jaundice, bloating, poor appetite and nausea. Fortunately, blue eye will dissipate once the dog has fought off the viral infection. In dogs who are severely affected by hepatitis, hospitalization may be necessary.
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