EYE INJURY

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EYE INJURY

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ADVICE SHEET: EYE INJURY

An eye injury is physical damage to the eye or the area around the eye. Because the surface of the eye (the cornea) is very thin and sensitive, a simple scratch, bump, or irritant can quickly worsen and endanger your pet’s vision.

[ ! ] SIGNS TO WATCH FOR

[ + ] Behavior: The animal keeps its eye closed, squints, or rubs its face.
[ + ] Appearance: The eye is very red, swollen, cloudy (bluish), or appears to bulge from its socket.
[ + ] Eyelids: The eyelid can no longer close completely over the eye.

✔ TREATMENT AND CARE

An eye injury is a priority. A veterinarian must examine the animal immediately. A few hours can be enough for the animal to lose its sight.

What to do at home

[ – ] Safety: Be careful, pain can cause the animal to bite. Use a muzzle if necessary.
[ – ] Keep the eye moist: If the eye “bulges” or no longer closes, gently apply contact lens solution or a very wet cloth while waiting for the appointment.
[ – ] Rinsing: If a chemical has touched the eye, rinse gently with water or saline solution for 15 minutes.
[ – ] Rest: Prevent the animal from scratching its eye (wearing an E-collar/cone is often essential).





[!] ABSOLUTELY AVOID

➤ DO NOT attempt to remove an object stuck in the eye yourself.
➤ DO NOT try to “push back” a bulging eye. Only a veterinarian can do this under anesthesia.
➤ DO NOT wait until the next day to consult.

Contact us immediately if: the eye suddenly changes color, if the discharge becomes thick green/yellow, or if your pet seems to be in increasing pain.

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