Just like humans, your cat or dog can be susceptible to infections of the eye known as pet eye infections. These are serious conditions that can cause extensive and permanent damage to your pet's eyes. If you notice signs of a pet eye infection, it's important to contact a veterinarian as soon as possible who can help restore your pet's health and prevent complications due to pet eye infections. At Amigo Animal Hospital, we're here to help our Westminster, CA residents get the help they need for their pets. Whether it's pet eye infections or another ailment, our veterinarian is here to help.
What are Pet Eye Infections?
Pet eye infections are those caused by a variety of external factors. These can include bacteria, which commonly causes conjunctivitis, allergic reactions, foreign debris in the eye, past trauma or injury to the eye, fungal infections, and viral infections.
Pet eye infections are often accompanied by various signs and symptoms, including:
- Discharge from eye
- Swollen eye
- Inability to open the eye all the way
- Red eyes or itchy eyes
- Whining from your pet due to pain
- Changes in behavior, such as increased fatigue
How a Veterinarian Helps Pet Eye Infections
Pet eye infections can also mimic symptoms of another illness, such as seasonal allergies. It's important to take your pet to visit a veterinarian, as they will determine whether your pet is truly suffering from an eye infection or something else.
To do so, they will conduct a physical exam and ask you questions about your pet's health. They might ask about previous trauma or injury, pre-existing allergies, or changes to their life at home (such as different grooming products).
After they determine your pet is suffering from pet eye infections, they will provide the best course of treatment to get rid of the infection. These treatments can include:
- Antibiotic eye drops should be applied according to the prescription instructions provided by your veterinarian.
- Surgery or small procedure to remove any debris that has become stuck in the eye.
- Antibiotic ointments to use around the skin of the eye.
- Lifestyle advice such as incorporating an antihistamine to reduce allergy symptoms.
Our veterinarian will also provide follow-up care to ensure your pet's eye infection is cleaning up and is not spreading to the other eye.
Treat Pet Eye Infections Today At Amigo Animal Hospital
At Amigo Animal Hospital, we have provided residents of Westminster, CA, with reliable pet care services for many years. Call us today at (714) 894-5558 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian.