Cat and Dog Eye Infections: Symptoms, Remedies and More

We can usually tell when our pets are not feeling well by looking at their eyes, which are beautifully expressive. It’s even more obvious when the physical condition of the eye is noticeably different. As cat and dog eye infections are fairly common, us pawrents should do everything we can to prevent them.

Why? While some of these eye infections are quick to clear up on their own, others can lead to a more serious condition.

So, what are the symptoms of an infection in your pet’s eye and what can you do about it? You can help your fur-legged pal by learning here about common eye infection symptoms, knowing when to seek veterinary care, and understanding how to treat the eye infection at home, if possible.

Common eye infections in dogs

Eye infections in dogs can be uncomfortable and sometimes even painful. If your dog has one, it may display any number of symptoms. Understanding them is key to treating the early stage of a dog’s eye infection.

In dogs, the causes for eye infections include:

• Foreign matter (e.g., hair or grass)
• Trauma
• Parasites
• Scratch or a cut on the cornea
• Viruses
• Bacteria
• Tick-borne diseases (e.g. ehrlichiosis)
• Fungus
• Irritants (e.g., shampoo)

Symptoms

• Eyes partially or completely closed
• Squinting
• Red eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Pawing at the eye
• Watery or thick, smelly discharge
• Swelling

How to treat a dog eye infection without a vet?

Even though it’s highly recommended to have your veterinarian treat your pet’s eye infection in-clinic, there are some home-friendly treatments they may allow you to use:

Saline rinse

Dog eye infections and conjunctivitis in dogs can be treated naturally with a saline solution (common salt plus distilled water). This is particularly useful for treating eye infections that are the result of allergies and irritants as it flushes them from the affected eyes.

Your dog’s eye infection should be treated with a saline rinse as soon as you notice it. Be careful to get the balance of salt to water right!

Chamomile tea rinse

In mild cases of bacterial and viral conjunctivitis in dogs, chamomile can work wonders. Conjunctivitis and other eye ailments were treated with this herb in ancient times.

Why does it work? It contains anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-irritant compounds. In addition to treating mild conjunctivitis, these compounds can also treat other viral, fungal, and bacterial eye infections.

In a cup of boiling water, add two tablespoons of dried flowers or one tea bag of Chamomile. Before straining the liquid into a sterile container, cover it for ten minutes. The chamomile herbal eye wash should be used twice daily until the infection has disappeared.

Remember: check with your vet first to get their go ahead to try this.

Aloe vera gel

Aloe vera can help doggo with bacterial, viral, and fungal eye infections. A rich source of natural antimicrobial compounds, this herb can be used to treat conjunctivitis and minor corneal abrasions.

Although aloe vera leaves can be used to treat doggo’s eye infection, we recommend buying a pure, store-bought aloe vera gel made for pets. To treat the infection, apply the recommended number of gel drops directly to the eye area.

You can also soak cotton balls or thin pieces of cloth in aloe gel and then place them over your dog’s infected eye for a few minutes.

Note aloe vera is a mild to moderately poisonous plant for dogs if consumed so keep it away from your pet’s mouth.

Dietary supplements

By boosting your dog’s immune system, you can help it avoid eye infections in the future. What better way to accomplish that than with a dietary supply of vitamins A and C, along with bioflavonoids?

At your local pet food store or online, you can find dietary supplements that contain these essential nutrients.

Again, first check in with your vet to discuss your dog’s unique needs – what’s right for one may not be right for another.

Common eye infection in cats

Eye infections in cats could be caused by:

• Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis
• Allergies
• Tumours
• Trauma
• Foreign matter
• Irritants
• Feline Calicivirus
• Upper respiratory diseases

Symptoms

• Light sensitivity
• Squinting
• Discharge
• Excessive blinking
• Watery eyes
• Redness

How to treat a cat eye infection without a vet?

The best treatment for cat eye infections is veterinary treatment in their clinic, but you can also try these home remedy solutions below if your vet allows it:

Herbal supplements

Itching and redness in your cat’s eyes can be alleviated by administering certain herbal supplements. There are several supplements that can assist with this problem, including aconite, sanicula, euphrasia, chamomile, calendula, and eyebright.

Depending on your cat’s needs, your veterinarian can recommend the appropriate dose.

Eye wash

For cats with foreign objects stuck in their eyes, eye washes are effective to these flush out. Your veterinarian, pet store, or online pet retailer can provide you with saline solution to rinse your cat’s eyes. Or, they may even advise you on how to make your own – don’t do that yourself unless a professional has had input.

Cats should not be treated with human-grade saline solution.

Warm compress

Infected eyes can be kept clean by wiping away any discharge with a wet cloth. Don’t do this too often – only wipe every few hours if absolutely necessary – and be sure to dispose of the cloth or put it in the washing machine after wiping the eyes.

You can find wipes specifically designed for cats in most pet stores if you want to be extra careful.

Colloidal silver

Colloidal silver is an anti-bacterial suspension containing microscopic silver particles often used in alternative veterinary medicine to wipe your cat’s eyes. Do not attempt this remedy unless your veterinarian has approved it.

Dog or cat, monitor your pet’s progress

Many factors can contribute to cat and dog eye infections. Some infections may not be as serious as others, but we’d always recommend a vet visit to rule out more dangerous ones.

If you notice your pet’s eyes aren’t as clear and beautiful as they usually are, it’s probably time to see an expert. Better safe than sorry, right? It won’t take long for your pet to return to a happy and healthy life with the appropriate treatment.

When it comes to cat and dog health, it’s not all doom and gloom. Why not enjoy these fun articles about our favourite fur-legged companions:

1. 3 “Ugly Cat Breeds” That Make Cute Pets
2. How to Interpret Dreaming about Cats and Dogs
3. Why Do Some People Look Like Their Dogs?
4. Should Your Cat Be Watching Cat TV?
5. Why Do Siamese Kittens Change Colour?

Pet insurance for eye infections

At PD Insurance we believe in the power of peace of mind. The peace of mind in knowing that your pooch or puss is in good hands in case of accident, illness, allergies or something like cat and dog eye infections. In the event of emergency medical treatment like tests, surgery or medication, with quality pet insurance your pocket’s protected for a wide range of covered health situations.

That way you can focus on the important things like being a great pet parent. 

Have a look at our dog insurance and cat insurance plans and find the right one for you and your furbaby. Plus, with us you’ll receive one or more months of free insurance when you sign up online.