Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is a common eye disease in dogs. Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which covers the surface of your dog's eyelids and eyeballs. Conjunctivitis can be viral or caused by a reaction to allergens, pollutants, and irritants that results in watery or mucous discharge. Purulent conjunctivitis is a more serious infection caused by streptococci and/or staphylococci, and the discharge is mucoid and can contain pus. In these cases, crusting of the eyelids is common. Other causes of eye inflammation in dogs may be keratitis or glaucoma, both of which are serious eye conditions that require veterinary treatment.

Causes of conjunctivitis:

There are many factors that cause conjunctivitis in dogs. Thankfully, most can be completely treated or prevented.
1. Virus: Canine conjunctivitis may be caused by viral infection. If this is the case, they will be contagious. If you have multiple dogs at home, it is best to use a product specially made for dogs. goggles covering eyes. Or, keep them as separate as possible.
2. Bacteria: Bacteria such as Staphylococcus or Streptococcus can cause conjunctival inflammation. Canine conjunctivitis, caused by bacteria, is also highly contagious.
3. Allergy: When debris gets stuck between the eye and eyelid, it has the potential to agitate the conjunctiva, causing it to swell and cause green discharge from the dog's eyes.
4. Dry eye: Keratoconjunctivitis or dry eye can cause eye inflammation, leading to conjunctivitis in dogs.
5. Trauma: Any physical damage to the eye will exponentially increase your dog’s chance of contracting canine conjunctivitis.
6. Cancer.
7. Parasites.
8. Eyelid and conjunctival tumors; this is rare in dogs.
9. Breed-related conditions such as nodular mucositis in collies and collies.
10. Eyelid abnormalities such as entropion or ectropion and eyelash diseases such as diverticulosis and ectopic cilia often cause secondary conjunctivitis.
11. Blocked nasolacrimal ducts, or "tear" ducts, can cause inflammation of the tissue surrounding the eyeball.
12. Other eye diseases, such as ulcerative keratitis, anterior uveitis and glaucoma.
tip: Conjunctivitis caused by viruses, bacteria, and parasites is contagious.

Conjunctivitis Symptoms:

The symptoms of canine conjunctivitis vary depending on the severity of the infection. Therefore, every symptom may not be seen immediately. But as the condition worsens, more symptoms appear.
1. Eye discharge: One of the most significant symptoms of ocular or canine conjunctivitis is canine eye discharge. So, if you see thick, pus-like discharge, you know that conjunctivitis is likely.
2. Red or bloodshot eyes: Red eyes are the main characteristic of canine conjunctivitis.
3. Eyelid swelling: Conjunctivitis is accompanied by inflammation of the tissues around the eyes. This can cause swelling of the eyelids.
4. Squinting: Inflammation and swelling prevent the eyes from fully opening. 5. Eye itching or eye rubbing: Conjunctivitis causes eye irritation, so dogs often rub their eyes constantly.

Treat conjunctivitis:

The symptoms of mild conjunctivitis can be relieved or eliminated with natural treatments, including dietary supplements to support the immune system, eye lubrication to combat dry eye syndrome, and Instill herbs to reduce inflammation and itching.

In severe cases of conjunctivitis, treatment is specific to the cause and may include topical and oral or systemic medications. Topical gentamicin, tobramycin, chloramphenicol, oxytetracycline, ciprofloxacin, or triple antibiotic ophthalmic ointments and solutions are usually prescribed. Some patients will receive medications containing anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ophthalmic prednisolone or dexamethasone. Oral antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications may also be used in dogs with secondary conjunctivitis. Patients diagnosed with KCS often require medications such as cyclosporine or tacrolimus to stimulate tear production. Patients with eyelid or eyelash abnormalities require surgical correction

Prevention of Natural Conjunctivitis in Dogs Keep your dog's eyes clean by wiping the hair around the eyes with a clean cloth every day to wipe away dirt and drain away any buildup. Be sure to provide lubricant if your dog suffers from dry eyes to prevent irritation from occurring. If your dog sees signs of illness or symptoms, make sure your dog is eating a healthy diet and boosting its immune system.