Common Problems Afflicted by Chihuahuas
Just like humans, every dog has different Chihuahua eye problems. Some are more common than others. A quick trip to your local veterinarian should help you figure out what the problem is for your pet. If it is not something serious, they can correct it or recommend treatment. Here is what you need to know about common Chihuahua eye problems:
Eye Infections:
This is by far the most common issue with Chihuahuas. The large size of their eyes combined with the fact that they are low to the floor means that Chihuahuas will constantly have lots of road grit and irritants in their eyes. Their eyes often tear out in an attempt to eliminate the irritants. Treatment involves reducing the number of irritants and cleaning the eyes regularly.
Glaucoma:
This is a condition where fluid builds up in the eye. It’s also known as “pink eye” in the United States. Symptoms include vomiting, loss of appetite, blurry vision, and increased sensitivity to bright lights. Usually, treatment consists of reducing the fluids and getting the dog checked by an eye doctor. If it is caught early enough, Glaucoma can be eliminated.
Episcleritis:
This is also called “pink eye” but is different. Symptoms include a red, tender, irritated eye. It also causes the whites of the eyes to turn pink. Treatment involves avoiding irritants, using prescribed eye drops, and reducing eye strain through positive indoor air quality. If the infection is caught early enough, it can be treated without antibiotics.
Allergies:
Allergies affect the immune system, and can be a sign of a serious condition.
These include such things as food allergies, pollen allergies, watery eyes, sinusitis, and more. Symptoms include itching, scratching, and watery eyes. Some dogs seem to react more often than others. Treatment may include antihistamines, and steroids if symptoms are severe.
Infections:
The eye can become infected in many ways. Bacteria, viruses, or even fungal infections can occur. Symptoms include discharge, redness, swelling, or pain. Treatment includes antibiotics, ointments, and other topical medications.
Eye disorders:
Eye problems can occur in one or both eyes. Some of these include problems with vision, double vision, floaters, puffy eyes, blindness, and vomiting. If an eye disorder is suspected, treatment will include symptom control and examination by an optometrist.
Discomfort:
A feeling of discomfort in the eye area or difficulty opening the eye can signal an eye problem. Symptoms include watering, a burning sensation, or an itchy or swollen eye. Treatment may include antihistamines, and possibly an ointment. Another cause could be a defect in the tear ducts. Treatment includes medication, or surgery if symptoms are severe.
Dark Marks or Circles under the Eyes:
Chihuahuas can develop “black eyes” due to a blood vessel disorder. It’s called capillary fragility. The condition is usually hereditary. Treatment includes oral medications or surgery.
Glaucoma:
This condition causes permanent damage to the eye.
It’s called open-angle glaucoma. Symptoms include pain and sensitivity to light. Treatment includes high-pressure treatment or a laser. Some dogs with open-angle glaucoma may not get treatment because they’re too small. However, dogs with large, closed-angle glaucoma typically get treatment right away because they have a greater risk of blindness.
Other common Chihuahua eye problems include blind spots (myelination), cataracts, and progressive retinal degeneration.
Myelination refers to the loss of eye pigment. A cataract is when the eyeball becomes cloudy and reduces your vision. Progressive retinal degeneration causes the Chihuahua to lose nerve cells in the eye. And, any of these three conditions may be congenital, meaning they’re found in some dogs anyway.
Since these are all preventable problems, Chihuahuas should be lucky. They only need to make sure their parents take care of them and monitor them very closely. If your Chihuahua eye problems are severe, you may want to contact an experienced vet. Your vet may need to examine to determine the exact cause of the issue.
Chihuahua Eye Problems Information
The eye is a very important part of a dog’s anatomy. Several common eye problems can occur in Chihuahuas. Some of these problems can be severe, resulting in blindness. Others can be painful, but they are not life-threatening. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, you should schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.
A vet can remove the stuck eyelash or prescribe a medication to help lubricate the eyelid and prevent blockages. Tear stains are buildup in the corner of a Chihuahua‘s eye, which is usually yellowish and more noticeable in dogs with white fur. If you notice dried spots at the corners of your dog’s eyes, consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Allergies or dust can cause irritation or inflammation. You should use an eye ointment if you notice excessive blinking or debris in the eye. Other eye conditions include trichiasis, distichiasis, and ectopic cilia. Some of these conditions can damage the cornea. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, seek veterinary care right away.
Proptosis is another eye condition that can be caused by trauma to the head or neck.
It requires veterinary care. In some cases, you can flush the affected eye by gently pulling the eyelids wide apart. However, it is important to note that constant pulling of the eyelids can lead to inflammation of the affected area and may cause injury to the eye. Taking your dog to the vet is a good idea in such a situation.
Glaucoma is an eye disease associated with humans, but it can also occur in dogs. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness. In addition, bloodshot eyes are often a sign of allergies, and vets will prescribe prescriptions that will help alleviate the symptoms. In some cases, it will also be necessary to take your dog to the vet to undergo eye surgery. These surgeries can be very expensive and require anesthesia.
If you notice your dog’s eyelids are swollen or red, it’s time to visit a vet. Some of these problems are treatable at home. Some, however, will need professional treatment. It’s important to get your dog to the vet as soon as possible because some eye conditions are more severe than others. If you notice that your Chihuahua doesn’t like the idea of having their eyes cleaned, they may have a problem.
The most common eye problem in Chihuahuas is dry eye.
In some cases, a dog’s tear glands do not produce enough tears, resulting in dry eyes. If the lashes are not producing enough tears, they can become infected. If you notice these symptoms, your dog may have an infection. In some cases, your Chihuahua may be experiencing pain.
Dry eye in Chihuahuas can be caused by an allergy, dry eye, or an inflammation of the tear glands. If your dog has red-eye, you should check your dog’s eyes. If your dog has an infected eyelid, it might be a cherry eye problem. It can also be caused by an allergic reaction, which causes your dog to have itchy eyes.
Your dog’s eyes can be an indicator of other serious conditions. If your dog squints or blinks, you should visit your veterinarian immediately. These are the most common problems that can occur in your dog, and they will have a range of treatments. Sometimes, these are self-resolving, and a visit to your veterinarian may be necessary to get your dog back on track.
Your pet may have eye problems that cause your dog to blink. It is essential to get your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible. It may need to be treated with veterinary medicine. In some cases, the condition can be treatable by owners. Some dogs may need to be hospitalized, but most are not life-threatening. Even in the worst cases, it is necessary to see a vet for a proper diagnosis.
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