Pet eye injuries can range from mild to severe and may include scratches, foreign objects in the eye, contact corneal trauma, and chemical exposure. As soon as you notice any signs of a pet eye injury, it is important to take your pet to a veterinarian to determine the severity and cause of the injury. It is important to bring your cat or dog to an emergency vet or animal hospital because some eye injuries can lead to scarring or even permanent blindness if not treated on time.
What Are the Causes of Eye Injuries in Pets?
The causes of eye injuries vary, but the most common are the following:
- Riding in a car with a head out the window
- Digging in brush or running in woods
- Altercations with other animals
- Rough play
- Dangerous projectiles, including fireworks
Types of Eye Injuries
Here is a list of the most common injuries that your pet may have:
- Scratches on or around the eye
- Irritations that often lead to bacterial infections if not treated on time
- Ulcer on the corneal
- Puncture wound
- Eyelid trauma
- Proptosis - a condition characterized by an eye popping out of its socket
What Are the Most Common Symptoms of a Pet Eye Injury?
Here is a list of the most common signs and symptoms to pay attention to:
- General discomfort
- Inability to open the eye
- Squinting
- Pawing at eye or face
- Discharge or cloudiness
- Tearing eyes
- Rapid blinking
- Bloodshot eyes
Diagnosis and Treatment
In the event of an eye injury it is important to take your pet to an animal clinic as quickly as possible. At first, a veterinarian will examine the eye of your pet and ask you about the symptoms and when they began. If a vet notices that there is a foreign object in your pet's eye, an ocular exam will be conducted to find out if there is any irritation, bruising, or deeper injury. Treatment options depend on the severity of the injury. A mild injury is usually treated with prescription antibiotics, e-collar, or drops. More complicated eye injuries may require surgery in order to restore the function of the pet's eye.
Valley Veterinary Hospital in Helena, MT - Your Dedicated Veterinarians
At Valley Veterinary Hospital, our mission is to provide our four-legged patients and their owners with the best quality support and veterinary services, including the treatment of eye injuries. If you think your pet may have an injury, it is important to see an emergency vet as soon as possible. If you have any questions, or you are ready to schedule the first consultation, do not hesitate to give our animal hospital in Helena, MT a call.