What are the Top 10 signs of dry eye in dogs?
Dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), is a condition where a dog’s eyes don’t produce enough tears to stay moist and healthy. This leads to uncomfortable dryness, which, if left untreated, can cause serious eye problems. Recognising the symptoms of dry eye in dogs early can prevent long-term discomfort and damage to their eyes. Below are the primary symptoms of dry eye in dogs to help you identify this condition.
1. Thick Eye Discharge
One of the most obvious signs of dry eye in dogs is the appearance of a thick, sticky eye discharge. Unlike the typical clear tears or slight “sleep” seen in a healthy eye, this discharge is often yellow or green and may look more like mucus. You might notice it gathering in the corners of your dog’s eyes, or it may cause the eyelids to stick together, especially after sleeping. While eye discharge can be a symptom of other issues, thick and recurring mucus-like discharge is a hallmark of dry eye.
2. Red and Inflamed Eyes
A healthy eye usually appears white in the sclera (the whites of the eye) with no visible blood vessels. With dry eyes, the eyes can appear red or bloodshot, indicating inflammation. The conjunctiva, or the tissue lining the inside of the eyelids, may also look swollen or irritated. If your dog’s eyes look red and inflamed, this could indicate irritation from insufficient tears.
3. Frequent Blinking or Squinting
Dogs with dry eyes often blink excessively or squint due to the discomfort caused by the dryness. You might notice that your dog is constantly blinking or only opening their eyes halfway. This behaviour is a way for dogs to protect their sore eyes and indicates that the eyes may be feeling irritated, dry, or even painful.
4. Rubbing or Pawing at the Eyes
If your dog has dry eyes, they may frequently rub their face with their paws or rub their face against furniture, carpets, or even your leg in an attempt to relieve the discomfort. While occasional face rubbing is normal, excessive rubbing or pawing at the eyes can indicate an underlying problem. This behaviour can lead to more irritation, so if your dog is persistently rubbing their eyes, it’s worth investigating further.
5. Cloudy or Dull Eyes
Healthy dog eyes are typically bright and clear, reflecting light with a shiny, alert look. However, in cases of dry eye, the cornea (the clear front part of the eye) can appear dull or even cloudy. This cloudiness occurs because the eye isn’t receiving the proper moisture it needs to remain clear. In more severe cases, dry eye can lead to corneal ulcers or scarring, which can further dull or cloud the eye’s appearance.
6. Sensitivity to Light
Dogs with dry eyes may show sensitivity to light, a symptom also known as photophobia. This sensitivity may lead them to avoid bright areas, squint or turn away from sunlight, or act more comfortable in dim lighting. If your dog seems uncomfortable in bright light or avoids sunny areas, it might be a sign that their eyes are irritated or sore, possibly due to dry eyes.
7. Crusting Around the Eyes
Crusting or build-up around the eyes is another common sign of dry eye. This crustiness forms when mucus-like discharge from the eyes dries and hardens, leaving a crusty residue on the eyelids or surrounding fur. It may be particularly noticeable after your dog has been sleeping. While occasional crustiness can happen in any dog, chronic or heavy crusting can be a symptom of dry eye.
8. Swollen, Puffy Eyelids
When a dog’s eyes don’t produce enough tears, they’re more susceptible to infection and inflammation. This can cause the eyelids to appear swollen or puffy, especially around the edges. The swelling is due to inflammation caused by dryness and irritation in the eye. If your dog’s eyelids appear swollen or look puffier than usual, dry eyes could be a contributing factor.
9. Changes in Eye Colour
In more advanced cases of dry eye, the surface of the eye may develop a brownish tint due to pigment deposits on the cornea. This happens as a protective response to the dryness, but it can obscure vision over time. If you notice any colour changes or dark patches in your dog’s eyes, it’s essential to seek veterinary attention right away.
10. Decreased Vision or Disorientation
In the most severe cases of untreated dry eye, dogs may experience vision loss. This happens when the dry eye progresses to the point where ulcers or scarring form on the cornea, obstructing vision. Dogs with impaired vision may bump into objects, seem disoriented in familiar spaces, or appear hesitant to move around as usual. While this is usually a sign of advanced dry eye, noticing vision changes early can help prevent permanent damage.
How Is Dry Eye Diagnosed?
If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s essential to have your dog examined by a veterinarian. They can perform a tear test, known as the Schirmer Tear Test, to measure tear production and assess if it’s below normal. The vet may also examine your dog’s eye structures and rule out other potential causes of eye discomfort. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent further damage and preserve your dog’s vision.
Managing Dry Eye in Dogs
While dry eye is a chronic condition, it can be managed with proper care and treatment. Treatment usually involves medications to stimulate tear production or artificial tear solutions to keep the eyes lubricated.
Conclusion
Dry eye in dogs is a condition that causes discomfort and can lead to serious eye problems if left untreated. Recognising these symptoms early and consulting a vet can make all the difference in managing the condition and keeping your dog’s eyes healthy and comfortable. With appropriate treatment, most dogs with dry eye can lead happy, comfortable lives without significant complications.