Pet owners should be concerned about their pet’s eye redness and ocular inflammation, as these signs can indicate various underlying eye diseases or a recent injury. The eyes are delicate organs that are easily irritated by foreign debris, allergens, or injuries and pet owners should learn to recognize the causes of eye redness, so they can take appropriate action. Our Animal Medical Hospital of Naples team offers some common causes of eye redness in our four-legged friends.  

1. Conjunctivitis in pets

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is one of the most common causes of eye redness in cats and dogs and occurs when the conjunctiva, the tissue lining the inside of the eyelids and the white part of the eye, becomes inflamed. Pink eye can be highly contagious and can spread to other household pets. Conjunctivitis causes include:

  • Bacterial or viral infections
  • Allergies
  • Irritants (e.g., smoke or dust)
  • Foreign objects in the eye

2. Corneal ulcers in pets

A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the cornea, the eye’s clear front surface. This is a painful condition that can cause your pet to rub or paw at their eyes, exacerbating the problem. Corneal ulcers can result from:

  • Trauma or injury to the eye
  • Infections
  • Dry eye syndrome (i.e., keratoconjunctivitis sicca)
  • Chemical burns

3. Glaucoma in pets

Glaucoma is characterized by increased pressure in the eye that can lead to redness, pain, and vision loss. Causes include:

  • Genetic predisposition
  • Eye injuries
  • Infections
  • Tumors

4. Uveitis in pets

Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle eye layer, and can cause your pet significant redness and discomfort. Uveitis causes include:

  • Bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic infections
  • Immune-mediated diseases
  • Trauma
  • Cancer

5. Dry eye syndrome in pets

Dry eye syndrome, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, occurs when insufficient tears are produced, leading to eye irritation, redness, discharge, and blurred vision. Common causes include:

  • Immune-mediated diseases
  • Certain medications
  • Tear gland damage
  • Chronic eye infections

6. Allergies in pets

Pets can develop allergies to environmental factors, such as pollen, grasses, dust mites, and mold, that make their eyes red and itchy. Other allergy signs include chronic scratching or biting the skin, and upper respiratory signs, such as sneezing, coughing, and nasal discharge. Food allergies can also be a culprit.

7. Foreign bodies in pets’ eyes

Foreign objects, such as dust, grass, or small insects, in your pet’s eyes can cause irritation and redness. These objects must be removed promptly to prevent further damage, so contact our Animal Medical Hospital of Naples team for treatment. 

8. Trauma or injury in pets

Trauma to the eye, such as scratches, bites, or blunt force, can cause redness and swelling. If your pet’s eye is injured, they need our team’s prompt attention to prevent serious eye damage, including vision loss. 

9. Eye infections  in pets

Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites can lead to eye redness, inflammation, discharge, and serious discomfort for your pet. Common infectious agents include:

  • Canine distemper virus
  • Feline herpesvirus
  • Fungal spores
  • Parasitic larvae

10. Pets with eyelid abnormalities

Conditions such as entropion (i.e., the eyelids roll inward) or ectropion (i.e., the eyelids roll outward) can cause chronic irritation and redness, among other health effects. These conditions often require surgical correction.

Eye redness treatment in pets

The first step in treating eye redness in pets is to identify the underlying cause. Then, treatment will likely include:

  • Medication — Our veterinarian may prescribe eye drops or ointments to treat infections, soothe irritation, or manage inflammation.
  • Cleaning — We will instruct you on gently cleaning your pet’s eyes with a damp cloth to remove discharge or debris. Always follow our veterinarian’s exact instructions to avoid aggravating the condition.
  • Environmental management — If your furry friend’s eye redness is caused by allergies, you will need to reduce their exposure to allergens, such as dust, pollen, or certain foods. Using air purifiers throughout your home will minimize airborne allergens. 
  • Follow-up — Follow our recommended treatment plan to ensure effective healing and prevent recurrence. Monitor your pet’s progress and contact us if the eye redness does not resolve. 

Preventive measures for pet eye health

To help maintain your furry friend’s eye health, our team recommends: 

  • Wellness exams — Do not miss your pet’s annual veterinary check-up, which will help detect and treat eye issues early.
  • Maintain eye hygiene — Clean your pet’s eyes regularly with a damp cloth to remove debris or discharge.
  • Protective measures — Ensure your pet avoids environments with excessive dust, smoke, or other irritants.
  • Proper nutrition — A balanced diet supports overall health, including eye health.

If your furry pal’s eye redness persists for more than a day, is accompanied by discharge, swelling, or squinting, or your pet is in visible pain, seek veterinary care with our Animal Medical Hospital of Naples veterinarian immediately. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent more severe complications and maintain your furry friend’s eye health and vision.