Pink Eye in Cats and Dogs

Pink eye is also referred to as conjunctivitis. It makes a pet cat or dog's eyes crusty and red, with an infection that harbors pus and fluid or moisture retention. The discharge that seeps from the eyes and moistens the outer surface, almost blocking vision, needs to be cleaned periodically with cotton and warm water. There are a number of over-the-counter scrubs that are available for pink eye that are pH-balanced. The only relief comes from a soothing of the surrounding tissue and keeping it clean.

Pink Eye Symptoms:

Pink eye symptoms are not very different between the two species. Canine and feline conjunctivitis is the result of the presence of an irritant, which causes inflammation and infection. The irritant could be a wood splinter or even a small insect. The viral or bacterial infection is airborne and spreads via contact. Viruses proliferate in the presence of humidity. If the cause is allergic reaction, the sinus and mucus membranes are infected.

Pink eye symptoms are disturbing for the pet as well as the owner. The experience is more unsettling for the animal, who cannot express discomfort. The symptoms manifest in the way of pink, bloodshot eyeballs, discharge in the eye, swollen and inflamed region and fluid build up around the eye. Diagnosis for effective pet care needs to be immediate, to avail of relief options such as scrubs in time.

Symptoms of Pink Eye in Cats:

Felines are more tolerant towards the signs and symptoms of pink eye. These include:

• Stinging sensation within the eye.
• Soreness around the inner and outer eye regions.
• Loss of appetite.
• Irritable disposition.
• Consistent discharge from the tear glands.

Symptoms of Pink Eye in Dogs:

The signs and symptoms of pink eye in the case of a pet dog is not really different than those that manifest among felines. They include:

• Inflammation of the inner eye and surrounding region.
• Swelling of the inner eye membranes.
• Regular discharge that adds to their irritability with the condition.
• Impaired vision on account of swollen tissue and membrane.
• Quieter disposition.

Treatment options:

Canines respond to the symptoms differently in comparison to felines. They prefer curling within dark areas and sleep most of the day. The infected eye is sensitive to light and exposure makes the experience painful, causing a major shift in dog behavior. In the case of felines, they respond to severe itching and inflammation by rubbing the region against furniture edges. It is not uncommon to see a cat consistently use its paw to wipe discharge. Whimpering in the case of a dog and purring more than usual in the case of a cat is quite normal as they battle invading agents. Treatment of the condition to promote dog care and cat health includes antibiotics, steroids, repeated eye-flush and mediation to reduce inflammation and pain.

Pink eye or conjunctivitis in pets causes a major shift in behavior. The otherwise outdoor pet shows signs of submissiveness and refrains from any bright light. However, it is very important to ensure that the animal is not treated in haste for a harmless eyelash causing irritation. It is important to consult the vet and diagnose the condition, to promote pet health. If at all it does turn out to be pink eye, you need to keep other pets away from the animal. The condition is contagious and spreads rapidly. There are a number of herbal remedies available to ensure that the medication applied directly to the eyes is not an allergy trigger.