Ophthalmology

Dogs can suffer from various eye conditions which, if left untreated, can often lead to serious problems. The most common eye diseases in dogs are:

‍

• conjunctivitis (conjunctivitis): An inflammation of the conjunctiva caused by allergies, infections, or foreign bodies. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and increased lacrimation.
  ‍
• Cataract (cataract): A clouding of the lens that occurs primarily in older dogs. Cataracts can severely impair vision and lead to blindness if left untreated.
  ‍
• corneal ulcers: Injuries or infections of the cornea that can cause pain, sensitivity to light, and opacity. May be caused by injuries, infections, or genetic predisposition.
  ‍
• glaucoma: Increased intraocular pressure, which, if left untreated, can lead to permanent damage to the optic nerve and blindness. Early diagnosis is crucial here.
  ‍
• Dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca): This condition is caused by inadequate tear production, which can lead to chronic dryness, inflammation and corneal damage.
  
  ‍

If you notice signs such as reddening of your dog's eyes, increased lacrimation, or frequent blinking, you should see a vet immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent permanent damage. Thanks to our ophthalmology specialist, we are well equipped to provide optimal care for your four-legged friend.

Cats can be affected by various eye conditions that can affect their vision and well-being. The most common eye conditions in cats include:

‍

• conjunctivitis: A common disease in cats, often caused by viruses such as the herpes virus or chlamydia. Symptoms include reddened, swollen eyes and eye discharge.

• corneal ulcers: May result from injuries or as a result of infections. Flat-faced cats are particularly vulnerable.

• uveitis: An inflammation of the middle skin of the eye that can be triggered by various causes, such as infections or autoimmune diseases.

• glaucoma: Increased intraocular pressure, which can lead to blindness if left untreated. Often harder to recognize in cats than in dogs.

• cataract: Lens clouding, which can occur in older cats or as a result of diabetes. Regular eye exams are important because cats are often good at hiding eye pain.

If signs such as redness, swelling, increased blinking or eye discharge occur, you should see a vet immediately.

Because of their anatomy and lifestyle, rabbits have special ophthalmology requirements. Common eye problems in rabbits include:

‍

• dacryocystitis: An inflammation of the nasal lacrimal canal that causes eye discharge and swelling. Often caused by dental problems.

• conjunctivitis: May be caused by bacteria, viruses, or foreign bodies. Symptoms include reddened conjunctiva and eye discharge.

• corneal ulcers: Superficial injuries to the cornea that can be caused by foreign bodies or incorrect posture.

• exophthalmos: A bulging of the eyeball, often caused by infections or tumours in the eye socket.

• uveitis: May be caused by systemic diseases such as E. cuniculi in rabbits.

Early diagnosis and treatment is particularly important in rabbits, as eye diseases can progress rapidly. Look for signs such as eye discharge, redness, or changes in behavior and immediately present your rabbit to an experienced vet if you suspect eye problems.