Question
Red, painful, dry or cloudy eyes: what else can happen to the eyes?
Sunny, owner notes“I wish my dog lived as long as I do.”Updated
I'm an owner, not a vet. This is not veterinary advice, so check anything medical with your own vet.
Short answer
A red, sore or suddenly cloudy eye needs a vet to look at it soon. Not every eye change is a cataract or old age, and pain isn't something to wait out. If he's squinting, rubbing the eye or his sight changes suddenly, call your vet the same day. Don't use old eye drops from the cupboard unless the vet says they're right.
What to know at home
Cataracts can come with inflammation, and cloudiness can have other causes too. You can't tell which one it is at home, so the vet needs to look. Tell them about any rubbing, discharge or redness, and whether he keeps the eye shut.
What to write down
- Which eye and when it changed
- Pain, rubbing, discharge or sudden loss of confidence
- All current and previous eye treatments
What to ask next
Ask whether he should be seen today and whether he needs an eye specialist. If his sight seems poor, keep him away from stairs, pools and roads for now. Don't test how well he can see near them.
Sources
- My diabetic dog is going blindWhen his sight is fading
- Do eye drops or supplements prevent cataracts?Eye drops and supplements for cataracts
- When does a diabetic dog need a vet the same day?Signs that need a vet today
- How do I keep a blind diabetic dog safe at home?Keeping a blind dog safe at home
- How do I find a vet or specialist who knows diabetes?Finding an eye specialist or other specialist
Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.
Related
Q&A
My dog has diabetes and Cushing's. How does that work?
Yes, a dog can have both, and your vet will treat them as one plan.
Q&A
When does a diabetic dog need a vet the same day?
If he's weak, trembling, collapsing, vomiting or won't eat, call your vet now. Read the rest later.
Q&A
What should I write in a notebook for my diabetic dog?
Food, mood, water, injection times and your questions. Keep it short.
Urgent help
Emergency or low blood sugar
Call a vet now if your dog is weak, collapsed or having a seizure.