If your pet has been rubbing its eyes a lot, or if they seem to be having trouble opening them, they may have an infection. Pet eye infections can be caused by various things, from bacteria to allergies, but they can clear up with treatment from Southside Veterinary Hospital in Vero Beach, FL. This post will discuss the different types of pet eye infections, their symptoms, and how you can treat them.
Symptoms of Pet Eye Infections
The first thing you'll notice if your pet has an eye infection is that they'll constantly rub or paw at their eyes. Your pet may also have discharge from their eyes, ranging from clear to yellow or green. In some cases, the discharge may be crusty. Your pet's eyes may also look red, inflamed, and sensitive to light. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your pet to the veterinarian for an examination.
Causes of Pet Eye Infections
Pet eye can be caused by:
Parasites
Pets can get eye infections from parasites such as fleas, mites, and mosquitoes. These insects can carry bacteria or viruses that can cause infection when they bite your pet.
Allergies
Allergies are a common cause of eye infections in pets. If your pet is allergic to something in their environment, such as pollen or dust, they may rub their eyes a lot, leading to infection.
Trauma
Eye trauma, such as a scratch from a branch or a piece of dirt, can also lead to infection.
Bacteria
Bacterial infections are the most common type of pet eye infection. They can be caused by various bacteria, including those that cause pink eye in humans.
Treatment for Pet Eye Infections
The treatment for a pet eye infection will depend on the underlying cause. The most common treatments include:
Antibiotics
If bacteria cause the eye infection, our veterinarian will prescribe antibiotics to clear it up. The antibiotics may be in the form of eye drops, ointments, or pills.
Allergy Medication
If allergies cause the eye infection, our veterinarian may prescribe antihistamines or other allergy medication to help relieve the symptoms.
Corticosteroids
If the eye infection is caused by inflammation, our veterinarian may prescribe corticosteroids to reduce swelling.
Surgery
Surgery may be necessary to treat a pet eye infection in some cases. This is usually only the case if the condition is severe or if it doesn't respond to other treatments.
Visit Us for Pet Eye Infection Treatment in Vero Beach, FL
If you think your pet may have an eye infection, bring them to Southside Veterinary Hospital in Vero Beach, FL, for a proper examination. Our veterinarian will be able to determine the cause of the infection and prescribe the appropriate treatment. Contact us today at (772) 562-7845 to schedule an appointment.