I-Drop and I-Lid Relieve Dry Eye and Tear Stains

The eyes are important and delicate structures that require extra attention to keep them healthy. An essential part of your dog or cat’s annual check-up is the eye exam. Since our pets cannot tell us about vision changes, it’s important to report any problems or concerns to your veterinarian. Many eye diseases are time-sensitive and may require prompt treatment to prevent them from worsening. Fortunately, some eye conditions can be managed or treated when caught in the early stages. Learn more about tears, dry eye, tear staining, and I-Drop Vet eye products on our blog below.

Why are Tears Important?

Continuous tear production and distribution is essential to maintain a healthy eye. The tears clean the surface of the eye, keep the cornea hydrated and oxygenated, lubricate the eyelids, nourish tissue, and provide natural healing. Tears are produced by two different tear glands and spread across the eyes with each blink to keep them coated. Allergies, infections, genetics, hormone conditions, immune reactions, eye deformities, nerve damage, and certain medications may interfere with normal tear production.

Dry Eye

Dry eye, also called keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), occurs when the body does not produce enough tears or the tears cannot lubricate the eye normally. It can cause irritation, redness, inflammation, and discharge. When left untreated, dry eye can damage the surface of the eye known as the cornea. Furthermore, resulting in corneal ulcers and vision loss. KCS may be commonly caused by other diseases, immune system conditions, or medication. Certain breeds are more likely to develop dry eye, especially Brachycephalic cat and dog breeds with shortened snouts. Common warning signs of dry eye include:

  • Eye redness
  • Eye irritation and pain
  • Excessive squinting or blinking
  • Thick or mucous-like eye discharge
  • Tear staining
  • Accumulation of eye secretions or debris around the eyes and eyelids

If you suspect your dog or cat is having eye problems, talk with your veterinarian. Diagnosing dry eye or other conditions may involve an exam, a tear test, corneal staining, and checking eye pressure.

 Tear Stains

Tear stains appear as brown or reddish colored fur around the corner of eyes. Due to appearance, tear stains are often considered unpleasant, especially on light-colored dogs and cats. Staining may indicate an underlying medical condition, so it’s important to talk with your veterinarian. Common causes of tear stains may include natural tear pigment, genetics, abnormal tear production, eye malformations, infection, allergies or eye condition. To help prevent staining, try incorporating some facial hygiene and grooming practices into your pet’s routine. Trim hair around the eyes to prevent irritation and tearing. Flush debris and mucous away from the eyes with sterile eye drops or eye cleanser solution. Cleanse and dry the fur and skin on the face and muzzle, especially facial folds.

Regular check-ups with your veterinarian are important for catching signs of disease and allow you to discuss any concerns about your pet’s eye health.

I-Med offers a line of ophthalmic products for dogs and cats to hydrate, clean, and protect the eyes.

I-Drop Vet Gel at VetRxDirectI-Drop VET Gel

Provides superior relief for dogs and cats with moderate to severe chronic dry eye. This blink activated lubricating drop provides long-lasting hydration to the entire surface of the eye and stabilizes the tear film. This is a preservative-free solution and comes in a multi-dose bottle.

 

 

I-Drop Vet Plus at VetRxDirectI-Drop VET Plus

Provides immediate relief and lasting comfort for dogs and cats with acute or seasonal dry eye conditions. This blink activated, lubricating drop coats the entire surface of the eye with every blink. I-Drop Vet continually hydrates and supports the tear film and requires fewer applications.

 

 

I-Lid N Lash at VetRxDirectI-Lid N Lash Cleanser & Wipes

This no-rinse cleanser removes residue, eye secretions, and crusts away from the eyelids, lashes, and facial areas. It helps prevent the formation of tear stains, as well as removing debris. Also, I-Lid N Lash provides hygienic cleansing and prevents facial fold odors. Choose wipes or liquid pump.

 

L-Lysine Supplements For Cats

L-Lysine supplements are commonly used to help reduce symptoms in cats with feline herpes virus. Feline herpesvirus (FHV, FHV-1) is a highly contagious virus that is one of the major causes of upper respiratory infections or cat flu in cats. It is an airborne virus that spreads easily and can be passed from one cat to another by direct contact or even contact with an infected food and water bowls, even when the infected cat isn’t experiencing symptoms. Once a cat is infected with the feline herpes virus they carry it for life and may experience flare-ups of the illness. Some of the common symptoms of Feline Herpes Virus Include:

  • Discharge from eyes or nose
  • Nasal congestion
  • Sneezing
  • Fever
  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite
  • Excessive blinking
  • Squinting
  • Throat and mouth sores
  • Breathing problems

Feline Herpes Virus is a major cause of upper respiratory disease in cats and also affects the health of the eyes. It can even cause damage to the eyes if the infection is severe or left untreated. It can cause conjunctivitis, which is the inflammation of the tissues that line the eyelids and surround the eyes. Keratitis, which is inflammation and infection of the cornea, can lead to corneal ulcers, corneal scarring, or chronic ‘dry eye’ (keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS). Learn more about feline herpesviral conjunctivitis.

L-Lysine is a type of essential amino acid that has been used to help stop the spreading and progression of feline herpes virus in cats. Lysine is a natural amino acid used by the cells in the body which interferes with the replication of the virus by blocking its use of arginine, another type of amino acid. By providing a L-Lysine supplement, it may help slow the infection from worsening in your cat and reduce future outbreaks.

Optixcare L-Lysine Chews

Optixcare L-Lysine chews may help reduce the severity and frequency of feline herpes outbreaks, and support eye health for your cat. It may also reduce the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections Each chew contains 500 mg of lysine and has a tasty, chicken flavor cats will enjoy.

Duralactin L-Lysine Paste

 

 

 

Duralactin L-Lysine paste helps support eye and respiratory health in cats. L-lysine also helps reduce the replication of the feline herpes virus and may reduce outbreaks in infected cats. It contains natural antioxidants and essential Omega fatty acids. Duralactin also includes MicroLactin, a dried milk protein from hyperimmunized cows, to help manage inflammation.

Have you ever used an L-Lysine supplement for your cat? If so, leave us a comment below!

 

 

Optixcare Relieves Dry Eye and Supports Eye Health

Vision is an important part of everyday living for dogs and cats, and keeping their eyes healthy is not something us as owners normally think about. Some eye crusts and gunk here and there are normal, but if you notice increased eye secretions, staining, and irritation it could be a larger problem.

Eye diseases can occur for many reasons including genetics, aging, eye injury, and degeneration. Dry eye, also called keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), occurs when not enough tears are produced by the body, or tears cannot lubricate the eye normally.  Dry eye can be uncomfortable and cause redness, inflammation, and discharge. Left untreated, dry eye can cause damage to the surface of the eye (cornea) and may result in ulcers and even vision loss. Certain breeds are more likely than others to get dry eye including bulldogs, schnauzers, setters, and cocker spaniels. Corneal ulcers are like an open sore on the surface of the eye, causing pain, irritation, and inflammation. Ulcers can also be caused by injury, infection, and other diseases including Feline Herpes Virus. Fortunately, these eye conditions can be managed and sometimes prevented or delayed with daily care. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian are important for catching signs of disease and allow you to discuss any concerns about your pet’s eye health. Optixcare Ophthalmic offers a line of products to hydrate, clean, and protect the eyes for dogs and cats.

Optixcare Eye Lube at VetRxDirect

Optixcare Eye Lube moisturizes dry eyes by blending with the tears to soothe irritation and discomfort. This hydrating water-based gel allows oxygen exchange in the eye to moisturize without blurring vision. Optixcare Eye Lube also provides dry eye relief for dogs and cats recovering from surgical anesthesia.

 

 

Optixcare Eye Lube Plus at VetRxDirectOptixcare Eye Lube Plus provides long-lasting hydration with hyaluronic acid. It clings to the surface of the eye and works with the natural tears for continual comfort and protection of the cornea. Eye Lube Plus helps relieve itching and irritation caused by dry eye, allergies, infection, and inflammation.

 

 

Optixcare Eye Health at VetRxDirectOptixcare Eye Health is an eye lubricant and nutraceutical that supports and maintains ocular health. It is formulated with 4 different antioxidants that combat free radicals, which cause oxidative stress and damage to the eyes. Preventing oxidation can help reduce inflammation and slow the process of disease, retinal degeneration, and cataracts.

 

Optixcare Eye Wipes at VetRxDirectOptixcare Eye Cleaning Wipes provide a convenient and quick way gently clean around the eyes and facial areas. Optixcare Wipes feature a pH-balanced formula to remove eye gunk and soothe irritation. Wipe away secretions or debris from the eyes, reduce buildup, and stubborn tear stains. Ideal for cleansing facial folds and reducing odor. 

 

 

Optixcare Eye Wash at VetRxDirectOptixcare Eye Cleaner gently cleans and soothes the eye and surrounding areas with a gentle, pH balanced solution. It can be used to flush debris, irritants, and secretions directly from the eye, or to remove crusts and stubborn tear stains. Also, use to cleanse facial folds and reduce odor.

 

Ocu-Glo Human Formula Can Be Used In Dogs

Are you wondering if you can give your dog Ocu-Glo Human Formula? Ocu-Glo is one of the top picked vision supplement among dog owners here at VetRxDirect. Ocu-Glo was formulated by veterinary ophthalmologists to help provide nutritional support for the eyes. It features a unique blend of 12 antioxidants including grape seed extract, lutein, B complex vitamins, lycopene, and Omega-3 fatty acids.These antioxidants help combat the negative effects of oxidation, a natural process that causes cell damage over time. This oxidative stress, especially in aging dogs, can to degenerative eye disease like glaucoma and cataracts. Ocu-Glo may also lessen the symptoms of some dog eye diseases.

The canine Ocu-Glo formula comes in liquid gel caps, which can be given whole or split and sprinkled in food. For those with picky dogs, sometimes the gel caps can be difficult to mask with food or impossible to give by themselves.The gel caps also have a bright Visit VetRxDirectorange color that may stain the fur around the mouth, especially in lighter colored animals. However, the human labeled Ocu-Glo comes in powdered capsules which people are finding it easier to mix into their dog’s food, versus the liquid. The powder also does not stain like the liquid.  Although it is for humans, it is designed to support eye health just like the canine formula.

Ocu-Glo human contains the same key ingredients as the canine formula: grape seed extract, lutein, alpha lipoic acid, and Omega fatty acids.The Ocu-Glo human contains astaxanthin instead of lycopene (derived from tomato) because people can have allergies to tomatoes, and has a few different vitamins from the canine formula.

If you have a hard time giving your dog Ocu-Glo or dislike the fur stains, the Human Ocu-Glo may be the solution. Like all other nutritional supplements, talk with your pet’s veterinarian before giving it.

Pet Eye Medications: Glaucoma

Pet Eye Medications Flickr Image

Courtesy of Eric Schmuttenmaer/Flickr

What is inflammation in your pet’s eye?

Many animals can suffer from allergies or diseases that affect their eyes. As a result, they may suffer from inflammation of the conjunctiva, the moist tissue that covers the eye. Eye inflammation can be caused by many different sources such as bacteria, viruses, allergies, cancer, and others. Conjunctivitis, or eye inflammation, can affect dogs and cats and may be detected according to many symptoms: squinting or frequent blinking, redness, discharge from the eye, swelling, etc. Talk with your veterinarian if you believe your pet may be suffering. There are many treatment options available depending on the source of the inflammation.

Blepharitis, inflammation of the eyelid, can also occur in pets. It can be detected as scaly, flaky skin near the eye with intense itching and scratching. Watery mucus or pus may drain from the eye. This can be seen with or without conjunctivitis and has similar causes.

What is glaucoma in the pet’s eye?

Glaucoma is different than eye inflammation but also can occur in dogs and cats. Glaucoma is a disease of the eye with excess pressure in the eye. Excess pressure is a result of too much fluid known as the aqueous humor within the eye. Aqueous humor is a fluid that the eye makes in order to transport nutrients and to maintain the shape of the eye. Glaucoma may be caused by a blocked drainage of the fluid which can lead to a buildup of pressure within the eye. Bulging eyes are often a sign of this pressure buildup. Other signs may include excess squinting or rubbing, watery discharge that is usually clear, or a cloudy or bluish color to the eye. Unfortunately, glaucoma is not a curable disease. Glaucoma often begins in one eye and may spread to the other eye over time and eventually may lead to blindness if the pressure isn’t reduced. Contact your vet immediately if you notice any bulging or signs of glaucoma in your pet’s eyes.

What tests will your pet’s veterinarian perform?

It is important to talk to your veterinarian if you suspect your pet is suffering from inflammation of the eye. They can help determine the cause of inflammation by doing a full examination of your pet’s eyes. The veterinarian can detect foreign materials, test any discharge for bacteria, and also detect any scratches to the eye using a fluorescein stain. He may also need a biochemistry profile, urinalysis, and complete blood count to rule out certain infections. Glaucoma is detected by measuring the intraocular pressure (IOP) within the eye and an internal eye examination using special instruments. There are many treatment options available.

What treatment options are available for your pet?

The treatment option will be selected after the source of the inflammation is determined and will be based on the cause of inflammation. If your pet has a bacterial infection, the veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics. If the source of inflammation is due to allergies, avoidance of the allergen is the recommended solution. If there is a blockage causing increased pressure in your pet’s eye, surgery may be necessary to reverse the cause. Below are some of the common medications used to treat numerous types of inflammation.

Prednisolone is a corticosteroid used for short periods of time to reduce inflammation, itching, and redness in the eyes of dogs and cats. Long-term topical application of this medication may result in glaucoma. Only use this medication as directed by your veterinarian. It comes in many forms: tablets, oral liquid, eye drops, or injections. Some side effects seen when using prednisolone ophthalmic solution may include blurred vision, eye irritation, and excess discharge from the eyes.

Flurbiprofen is a non-steroidal eye drop that can be used in dogs and cats to treat certain kinds of eye inflammation by reducing puffiness in your pet’s eyes. This medication is not used for the treatment of glaucoma.

Latanoprost can be used to help reduce eye pressure caused by glaucoma. It helps by increasing the drainage from the eye and reducing excess pressure. It is important to use this medication as directed because overuse can lead to development of tolerance. Tolerance to latanoprost may make the medication ineffective in treating glaucoma.

Diclofenac sodium is a product used to treat inflammation of the eye belonging to the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug class, also known as NSAIDs. It inhibits an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX) which is needed for the production of prostaglandins. These prostaglandins can cause excess inflammation and pressure buildup in the eye. Damage to the tissues can lead to the production of prostaglandins, but by using diclofenac sodium, you can inhibit this overproduction.

Some pets may experience a large amount of discharge coming from the eyes. Before using any products, gently clean your pet’s eyes. If using multiple products, it is important to wait a few minutes between each application in order to ensure the medication remains in the eye and is not washed out by the next medication or excess tear production. Apply any ointments after applying solutions. Ointments may make it difficult to get the solution into the eye and allow the drug to reach its target area.

When will your pet’s veterinarian prescribe other pet eye medications?

The medications listed above are just a few of the options available for inflammation of the eye. Your veterinarian is the expert about what medication option is best for your pet. If you notice any changes in your pet’s eyes, schedule an appointment today with your veterinarian.

How to apply eye drops and eye ointments to pets?

Eye Solutions and Suspensions:

  1.  Wash your hands.
  2.  Shake your container. Suspensions need to be shaken in order to assure uniform distribution of the drugs in the container. Suspension tend to settle over time.
  3.  Tilt your pet’s head backwards.
  4.  Hold the dropper tip directly over the eye. Make sure not to touch the dropper tip to your pet’s eye. It will help to keep the medication sterile and to prevent contamination.
  5.  Gently pull the lower lid away from the eye to form a pocket.
  6.  Place 1 drop into the pocket.
  7.  Release the eyelid slowly.
  8.  Wait several minutes before administering a second drop or medication. If drops are placed too quickly into the eye. Most of the medication will be blinked out of the eye. The medication will not be as efficacious as needed for the treatment.
  9.  Replace the cap on the container and store according to the package guidelines. Some medications may need to be refrigerated or protected from light. Contact your veterinarian regarding storage requirements.
  1.  Wash hands
  2.  Gently pull the lower lid away from the eye to form a pocket.
  3.  Gently squeeze a small amount of ointment inside the lower lid. Do not touch the tip of the tube to the eye or your fingers.
  4.  Close the eye gently.
  5.  Replace the cap on the container and store according to the package guidelines. Some medications may need to be refrigerated or protected from light. Contact your veterinarian regarding storage requirements.

Helpful tip when applying multiple pet eye medications:

If your pet is using multiple eye products, solutions and suspensions are generally applied first. Applying an ointment before a solution or suspension product will make it difficult for the drop to come in contact with the eye. It is important to remember to always follow the directions given to you by your veterinarian.

What pet eye medications are you currently giving your cat or dog. Can you share any secrets with us on how you manage to apply the medications? Please let comments below or leave a product review on any of our pet eye med product pages. Thank you.

Erika Bitschura

Student Pharmacist

 

Corneal Ulcers: Causes, Treatments in Dogs and Cats

Flickr Image for Corneal Ulcers in Pets

Courtesy of manuelsvay / Flickr

Courtesy of manuelsvay / Flickr

One of the most common age-related issues in human beings, eye problems also affect our furry friends. By the time they reach middle age (ages 7-9), most dogs and cats experience some dwindling of sight. However, when the problem threatens to rob them of their vision overnight, it may be the result of corneal ulceration. Never heard of it before? Keep reading!

The front clear part of the eye, the cornea lets light in and forms a cover over the iris and the pupil. When the sensitive outer layer of skin (the epithelium) that protects the cornea is scraped, scratched, or erodes, the defect is considered a corneal ulcer. In most cases, the condition is extremely painful and will cause pets to squint incessantly or rub at their eyes. However, if the ulcer deepens, spreads, or becomes infected, it can rob an animal of its sight.

Causes of Corneal Ulcers in Pets

Although more common in dogs, corneal ulcers or ulcerative keratitis does affect cats. The most frequent cause of the condition is obtained injuries. An ulcer may develop because of blunt trauma caused by non-stop rubbing, or a laceration caused by contact with something sharp. Pets that are allowed outdoors may also encounter dangerous chemicals that can burn the cornea. Furthermore, erosion can be caused by irritating substances like dust or shampoo that gets caught in the eye and wears down the epithelium over time.

A far less common cause, corneal ulcers may be the result of viral or bacterial infections that start in the eye and develop into something more serious. More generally, dogs and cats that suffer from dry eye due to decreased tear production (keratoconjunctivitis) are at a greatly elevated risk of developing corneal ulcers.

Symptoms of Corneal Ulcers in Pets

When human beings have an eye issue, they see a doctor immediately. But when a dog or cat has ocular problems, they often try to hide it. When the pain becomes too intense, however, pets generally paw at the affected area; not knowing, of course, that this rubbing only exacerbates the injury. The damaged cornea will also be more sensitive to the light, which means your furry friend will squint, blink, and nictitate more than usual. In some cases, a discharge will accumulate in the corners of the eye and may run down the face. These streaks are often mistaken for tear stains when the true cause is corneal ulcers.

Diagnosis of Corneal Ulcers in Pets

Minor damage caused by scratches, erosion, or abrasions can seldom be seen without the use of special equipment. If the corneal ulcers are suspected, your pet’s veterinarian may perform a fluorescein. This simple test involves a special stain that is placed on the cornea and will immediately adhere to ulcerated areas. Stain tests are generally the only eye tests needed to detect superficial damage to the cornea. But when the damage is more serious, i.e., when the ulcers are very deep, the doctor must take samples for culture and examination before treatment is undertaken.

Treatment options of Corneal Ulcers in Pets

Just like any other injury, treatment is based on the extent of the damage; consulting with your pet’s veterinarian is a must.

The good news is most corneal ulcers aren’t really ulcers, they’re abrasions! They distress in only a very small amount of skin loss to the outer layer of the cornea, skin that will grow back. It is for this reason that the most common treatment for corneal ulcers is rest and relaxation. Eye drops like Akwa Tears may be prescribed to prevent bacterial infections and shield the recuperating region, as well as mild analgesics to relieve pain and inflammation.

The bad news is that when corneal ulcers are large and growing, surgery may be required to save the eye. After all, you can’t simply tell your pet to stop scratching at a painful, irritated eye—which means the injury will invariably grow worse over time. The only way to deal with the issue and allow for normal healing is to remove dead or damaged layers of corneal skin and/or perform a corneal graft. Both procedures are extremely painful and expensive and have long recovery times.

Prevention of Corneal Ulcers in Pets in Key

As with most things in life, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Corneal ulcers are a progressive, degenerative injury that must be caught before they grow larger or deeper. Failure to do so will cause your furry friend unnecessary pain and may rob him of his sight! Our advice?

Far too many loving pet parents ignore the early warning signs of this potentially serious condition. They don’t do it on purpose, of course. Because these symptoms of corneal ulcers are so broad and could be caused by anything from a virus to seasonal allergies, most overlook fairly obvious signs of ocular irritation. This is perfectly understandable if the symptoms last for only a few hours, but if they persist for any longer, always contact your pet’s veterinarian for advice.

Has your dog or cat suffered from corneal ulcers?

How did your pet get diagnosed? What medications or treatments did your pet’s veterinarian prescribe? How did the treatments help? Let us know by leaving comments in the ‘Leave a reply’ link at the bottom of this post. Thank you.

Ocu-Glo Rx for Dog Eye Health!

Now more than ever, advances in biology are validating the time-honored adage that “we are what we eat”, and the same can be said for our best friend!

The importance of nutrition and a healthy diet rich in antioxidants for your pet cannot be understated. Supporting your dog with a nutritional supplement can help build the foundation for a long and fruitful life.

Ocu-GLO Rx Eye Supplement

Ocu-GLO Rx canine vision supplement was formulated by veterinary ophthalmologists to support the canine eye. This unique blend of antioxidants promotes the body’s natural defense against oxidative stress, which contributes to many degenerative eye diseases, and provides the nutritional support necessary for ocular health.

Help your dog see a better, brighter future today! Save on Ocu-GLO Rx on sale for a limited time at VetRxDirect.com.

Get a 90 count bottle for small dogs (under 10lbs) for just $60.00, or a 90 count bottle for large dogs (over 10lbs) for only $65.00 after coupon! Plus FREE, fast shipping & handling is included!

Use coupon code OCUGLORX during checkout.*

Ocu-GLO Rx – High-quality, pharmaceutical-grade vision supplement packed with antioxidants to support canine eye health. Now available without a prescription.

*Coupon expires 10/31/13. Limit one discounted bottle per customer. Customers must be signed into an account at VetRxDirect.com to validate one-time use coupons. Coupons cannot be combined or used with any other discount or offer. Coupons are not valid on telephone orders and cannot be applied to previous orders.

Have you tried Ocu-GLO on your dog? Let us know your thoughts and experiences by leaving comments below. Thank you.

What You Need to Know about Corneal Ulcers in Pets

Our eyes – we take them for granted until something goes wrong! Because it is such a complex, sensitive structure, eye injuries must be taken seriously and treated immediately. This is true for both human beings and their pets, since our eyes are very similar. Like their owners, dogs and cats have corneas, which are transparent coverings that protect the iris and the pupil. When this delicate body part is subject to ulcers, it can be quite painful. Often caused by calcium or lipid deposits, corneal degeneration can cause extreme sensitivity and discomfort, especially in our pets who often suffer in silence. It’s not that their owners are inattentive, but that the disorder can be difficult to discern. In this article we will discuss this all-too-common condition and how to treat it.

The Signs of Corneal Ulcers in Pets

If your dog or cat’s eyes are tearing up or overflowing excessively, it could mean he has a corneal ulcer, also called ulcerative keratitis. Of course, it could also mean that he simply has seasonal allergies. Once again, the symptoms of the disorder are quite general, which is why it often goes undiagnosed. With that said, if your pet has more than one of the following symptoms, there’s a pretty good chance his cornea has been damaged or scratched:

  • Red, irritated eye
  • Constant squinting
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Watery eye
  • Rubbing at eyes with a paw or into the coat
  • Eye is forced closed
  • Unidentified discharge
  • Opaque film covering the eye

Causes of Corneal Ulcers in Pets

The good news is that ulcers can heal rather quickly. But when serious damage has been done, either because of injury or disease, the transparent cells may not heal without immediate medical treatment. The following are the most common reason you may have to take your pet to his doctor if he suffers corneal degeneration:

  • Traumatic injury
  • Tear deficiency
  • Infection
  • Damage or paralysis of facial nerves
  • Cannot close eyelids
  • Something in the eye that cannot be rinsed out
  • Chemical substance causing irritation

At-risk breeds of Corneal Ulcers

It is also important to mention that certain breeds of cats and dogs are far more likely to suffer from corneal degeneration.  Why does this happen? There are several reasons including mechanical and structural ones. Some breeds, for example, have eyelids that tend to roll inward, which causes their eyelashes to swipe the corneal surface, causing immediate irritation. Others have protuberant eyes that actually stick out, making them more susceptible to environmental debris such as dirt and dust.

Although some cat breeds are at a slightly elevated risk of corneal degeneration, certain dog breeds are far more like to suffer from it. As a group, these are canines that tend to have very short noses or snouts and prominent, protuberant eyes. They include breeds like the pug, the boxer, the Boston terrier, the bulldog, and the Pekingese. Boxers, in particular, have a much higher risk of developing severe, debilitating cases of this disease than any other dogs.

Diagnosis of Corneal Ulcers in Pets

If you suspect your furry friend has corneal ulcers, you should make an appointment with his veterinarian as soon as possible. A thorough eye examination that includes inspection of the cornea will be conducted to confirm or rule out any structural damage that is the result of an ulcer or corneal erosion. It may also be necessary for his doctor to take samples and test them for fungi and bacteria infection, which are typically caused by conjunctivitis. Finally, the veterinarian may need to complete a blood test to rule out possible viral infections in your pet.

Treatment of Corneal Ulcers in Pets

As with most illnesses, the treatment depends on the underlying cause. If the corneal ulcers are deep and they are growing, your veterinarian may recommend surgery, although this should be considered a last resort. With older animals, who are the most commonly affected group, surgery can be quite risky.  Instead, your dogs/cat’s doctor might simply opt to put a large, lampshade-shaped collar on him/her to prevent them from scratching at the affected eye and aggravating the injury.

If the ulcers are merely superficial, your vet may simply take a cotton swap and use it to remove the outer, loose layers of the cornea that are causing the irritation.  This is often a quick-fix option that provides only temporary relief, but it is far less risky than actual surgery. In fact, managing corneal ulcers rather than curing them is the most popular option, especially for older dogs and cats.

Remend Corneal Repair Drops for Pets

In the event of a bacterial infection, antibiotics must be prescribed and are often applied topically, directly to the eye. Pain and inflammation can be treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as prescribed by your pet’s veterinarian. Eye drops like Remend Corneal Repair Drops may also be used to soothe irritated eye and to stimulate tear production. For additional products to improve your beloved pets’ peepers, check out our selection of eye health products for dogs and cats.

 

 

Try Ocu-GLO Rx for a Bright Future

You are what you eat. You’ve heard that before, right? Turns out, the same is true for our canine companions. Research continues to accumulate about the importance of giving our pets really good nutrition that gives them the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients they need to live long, healthy lives. Now many pet parents are looking beyond healthier foods and adding nutritional supplements to their pet’s diets.

Here at VetRxDirect, we’re seeing a steady rise in orders for nutritional supplements that help improve everything from joint and bone health to allergies and skin conditions in dogs and cats.

Ocu-GLO Rx has Antioxidants for Dog Eyes

Nutritional supplements to support eye health – like Ocu-GLO Rx are really gaining popularity too. Our dogs can’t tell us when their eyesight gets worse. But veterinary ophthalmologists know that over time, just like in humans, a dog’s ocular health can deteriorate. And, as they age, many dogs get degenerative eye diseases – like glaucoma and cataracts – that can certainly reduce their quality of life.

The big culprit in so many of these diseases is oxidation. It’s a natural process that causes cellular damage over time. Think of an apple that shrivels up and gets brown if it’s left out on the counter — that’s oxidation.

Many of the dietary supplements, including Ocu-GLO feature antioxidants, substances that help prevent disease by blocking the damage caused by oxidation. Ocu-GLO, which was developed by veterinary ophthalmologists, contains a unique blend of 12 powerful antioxidants that provide the nutritional support needed for good eye health in your dog. It’s packed with some powerhouse antioxidants including vitamins, Lutein, and Omega-3 fatty acids.

Consider your dog’s diet… Is she getting what she needs for optimal health? Ask your veterinarian about what supplements might improve your dog’s health and ensure she has a long, bright future ahead.

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Place Your Paw Over Your Left Eye…

Most dog owners want the best care for their canine friends. Their time with us seems short compared to our own lives, so giving them all our love and care become central while living with us. When it comes to caring for their eyes, most people never give it a second thought until we start to notice significant changes to their behavior.

Unless we take our friend to the veterinarian, how else can we check our dog’s eyesight? You can try using a standard eye chart by hanging it low on the wall and getting your dog to tap the floor with their paw — five times for the letter E – but this may be a challenge, even for a border collie (we kid, of course). But seriously, there are ways we can check our canine’s eyesight at home without incurring the expense of a veterinarian.

At one time, dogs were thought to see only in black and white; we now know that is not the case. Dogs actually see colors like yellow, blue, and grey in varying degrees, but to a much lesser extent than their human counterparts do. Checking their eyesight is not as difficult as it may seem, in fact, it can be similar to ways we check our own eyesight.

Start by relaxing your dog. If your dog is hyperactive, wait until they are tired. Hold your pooch gently by its ear in a bright light and take a close look at each eye. You want to look for scratches, cloudiness, obstructions, or anything that appears unordinary. Glaucoma, cataracts, and conjunctivitis are all problems dogs can develop and require immediate attention by a professional. If all looks fine, let’s move on to the next test.

Dogs see best in low light. They are predators by nature and are designed to function in low light settings. They also have great mapping skills and can memorize a room’s layout quickly so we have to come up with a way to fool them. It sounds rather cruel, but if you suspect your dog is losing its eyesight, the best way to check is to set up an obstacle course in a dark room. Use chairs, books, tables, whatever you have available, and place them in areas that your dog normally travels without obstruction. If your dog maneuvers these objects well, try again in a brightly lit room. Getting the same results in both lighting conditions mean that your dog has either great eyesight, or poor eyesight if they stumbled, or you just filled the room with so many objects no one could maneuver it without tripping over something.

If you suspect your canine friend did poorly on this test, it is best to have your veterinarian look at your dog’s eyesight. Do not leave it be or else serious, irreversible damage could occur. It is possible that you do not realize your dog has poor eyesight until you perform this test or take them to a new location and observe them stumbling around objects.

If you have a puppy, checking his eyesight is just as important as it is in an older dog. Get someone to hold the puppy and stand in front of them holding a favorite treat or toy in your hand. Hold the toy in front of your puppy at a distance of about 6 feet and slowly move it from side to side. Your puppy should follow it by turning its head. Any sign of impairment should bring about a trip to your vet for further testing.

Ocu-Glo Group

Dogs are our best friends, and members of our family. They take care of us in ways no human could possibly do so why not take a few minutes to check your dog’s eyesight. Your furry companion may benefit from routinely taking a natural supplement that benefits eyesight; Ocu-GLO Rx vision supplement for dogs incorporates twelve different beneficial nutrients like Omega-3 and grape seed extract to strengthen this important sense. Consult with your veterinarian, and you may be pleasantly surprised in your dog’s sight and behavior. So give your dog the treat of good eyesight!