Dry eye syndrome, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a common pet health problem that can occur in most any dogs and cats. This condition typically affects both eyes, and it can be very serious when it is not treated right away. It is caused by a lack of lubrication in the tear ducts of the eyes.
How Dry Eye Affects Your Pet
Since dry eye is often confused with conjunctivitis, pets with dry eye syndrome are often not treated properly. As such, they show little to no improvement and the problem simply worsens. Over time, the cornea can become ulcerated and your pet can experience repeated bouts of conjunctivitis, keratitis and may even become blind.
Common Symptoms of Dry Eye
Common Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome in Pets: Thick Discharge from the Eyes, Chronic Conjunctivitis, Inflammation of the Cornea, Distress and/or Pain, Pawing at the Eyes, Opaque and/or Ulcerated Cornea and Sensitivity to Bright Lights. As stated above, dry eye is often misdiagnosed as simply conjunctivitis. As such, you need to be sure to take note of any other symptoms your pet exhibits. This will ensure that your dog or cat receives the proper treatment and medication it needs for its condition.
Treatments for Dry Eye
Typical treatments for dry eye syndrome involve medications and/or surgery. Medications your veterinarian may prescribe include mucolytics, hormones and antibiotics, which can all help to reduce the thickness of mucous. In some cases, surgery can help by moving salivary ducts from the mouth to the eyes. Your veterinarian may also recommend an eye drop that contains N-acetyl-carnosine, or NAC, to help prevent dry eye from recurring. These eye drops work because of their powerful antioxidant properties, which encourage self-healing and help to maintain healthy eyes.
Breeds Affected
As stated above, most any breed of dog or cat can develop dry eye syndrome. However, there are some animals that are more predisposed to the condition than others. Dogs and Cats Most Vulnerable to Dry Eye Syndrome: Pugs, Pekingese, Cocker Spaniels, Shih Tzu, Dachshunds, Bulldogs, West Highland White Terriers, Lhasa Apsos, Persians, Himilayans, animals with immune disorders, animals with Distemper, animals affected by Trauma, animals on Sulfonamides or Anasthetic Agents and animals with Congenital Defects.
Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
