Ocular Disease in our Pets - Keep an Eye on Things Our dogs and cats suffer many of the same eye conditions or diseases as people do: surface scratches (ulcers), pinkeye (conjunctivitis) and increased fluid pressure (glaucoma), to name a few. Most eye conditions develop spontaneously, but some can be prevented. Different breeds are often predisposed to certain diseases. For example, Burmese cats are at risk for tear gland prolapse (cherry eye). Young Siberian huskies can quickly develop cloudy lenses (cataracts). Dogs with prominent eyes (Pugs, Shih Tzus and Boston Terriers), because of skull shape, are at increased risk for disease on the surface of their eyes (corneal ulcers). Cocker Spaniels and Basset Hounds are at risk for inherited glaucoma. Terrier breeds often develop glaucoma after the lenses in their eyes move (lens luxation). Sudden changes in vision, evidence of discomfort (squinting) and increased redness, cloudiness or drainage of the eyes is abnormal. If you see these signs, seek medical assistance. Dogs with glaucoma can lose vision in the affected eye within 12 to 24 hours, if untreated. A corneal ulcer can quickly become infected and then require surgery. The necessity for a safe environment seems obvious, but little things can be overlooked. Thorns can penetrate or rupture the eye of dogs rummaging in bushes. It’s fun to watch a pet with a toy in its mouth shake it vigorously, but this isn’t good for breeds prone to retinal detachment (Shih Tzu, for instance), for dogs with deep corneal ulcers or dogs recovering from delicate eye surgery. Finally, don’t guess at medicine for eye conditions for your pets. Giving expired medication is bad, but giving the wrong medication is even worse. Many eye medications contain cortisone (for example, hydrocortisone and dexamethasone). Application of cortisone to an eye with a corneal ulcer will delay healing, increase the risk of infection and may cause damage.
Kind regards, Scott and Chris
Services we offer :•Veterinary treatments, surgery and hospitalisation • Small animal Dentistry • Veterinary diagnostic pathology and radiology • Sales of Pet products, food and accessories • PennHIP scheme accreditation • Cat Boarding • Loads of friendly advice!
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VETERINARY SURGERY 1104 Waterworks Road The Gap 4061 website: http://www.westernecho.com.au
The Western Echo November 2019 Page 15