As we connect with our pets through their eyes, anything that affects their vision tends to get our attention fast. From morning eye ‘gunk’ and crustiness to full-blown redness, conjunctivitis has a way of showing up quickly in our pets. It can be uncomfortable and alarming to see, but the good news is it often appears worse than it is.
What conjunctivitis looks like in pets
Conjunctivitis refers to inflammation in your pet’s inner eyelid and the white parts of their eye. While it’s common in both dogs and cats, in dogs, conjunctivitis tends not to be an infection and is more often related to allergies or eye irritation.
Cats are especially prone to conjunctivitis (particularly kittens) and it’s often viral or bacterial. It can also indicate upper respiratory disease and can occur frequently.
Can conjunctivitis spread between pets and their humans?
It is uncommon for humans to contract conjunctivitis from pets, although there are rare cases involving Chlamydia felis (a bacterial pathogen infecting cats), which in very rare cases may transfer to humans.
Immunocompromised pet owners may also be susceptible to mild cases of conjunctivitis, so practising high levels of hygiene at all times is recommended. Note, it is possible for cats to be infected by other cats, especially kittens and in multi-cat homes. Isolation and washing bedding can help reduce the spread.
Common signs of conjunctivitis
The most common signs of conjunctivitis to spot in your pet are:
- Redness or a bloodshot appearance
- A clear discharge (indicating an allergy or irritation)
- A yellow or green discharge (often indicating an infection)
- Squinting or light sensitivity
- Rubbing or pawing
- Swelling or puffiness
What causes conjunctivitis in pets?
There are a variety of causes for conjunctivitis in pets, and cases range from mild irritation to painful and uncomfortable.
- Infections: Conjunctivitis in cats can be caused by Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1), Chlamydia felis and secondary bacterial infections. In dogs, infections are often the result of a secondary issue
- Allergies: Allergic conjunctivitis is more common in dogs, with triggers including pollen, dust mites, mould, grass or household cleaning products
- Irritants: Both cats and dogs can be affected by smoke, certain shampoos/ conditioners, wind, sand and dirt in their eyes
- Certain breeds: Some breeds have eyelid abnormalities and other structural issues which are predisposed to conjunctivitis. These include Cocker Spaniels, Shar Peis, Chow Chows, Rottweilers, Great Danes, Pugs, French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Persian cats and Exotic Shorthairs
How to know when eye problems are more serious
Mild cases of conjunctivitis can be treated at home by gentle cleaning with a damp cloth and flushing with sterile saline or vet-approved eye wash. Eye conditions can worsen quickly – see your vet straight away if you notice any of these signs:
- Cloudy eyes
- Blue or white cornea
- Sudden vision loss
- Profuse discharge
- Eye trauma or the eye being held shut
- Sudden onset of severe pain
Diagnosing and treating conjunctivitis
To confirm a diagnosis, your vet may do a physical exam, a fluorescent stain (for corneal ulcers or scratches), a tear test, a swab or a PCR test in cats to detect herpes or Chlamydia. Treatment includes topical medications (like eye drops or ointment, lubricating drops or anti-viral drops), oral medications (for example, for Chlamydia) and surgery (to correct eyelid or structural issues).
Preventing conjunctivitis in pets
Some effective ways to help prevent conjunctivitis include:
- Regularly clean their eyes with a damp cloth
- Trim the hair around their eyes
- Avoid shampoos and conditioners that irritate them
- Rinse their eyes after swimming
- Manage their allergies at home and out on walks
For cats with herpes (which is a life-long condition), reduce their stress, support their immune system and try to manage flare-ups early.
