Conjunctivitis

Overview:

The definition of conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva. It is extremely common in both dogs and cats, although the causes usually differ between the species.

Causes:

The most common reason for cats to get conjunctivitis is viral, most likely the herpes or calicivirus. They can also develop the condition from trauma or from irritation from dust or dirt.Dogs generally get conjunctivitis from allergies, the distemper virus, or from ocular disorders such as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, entropion, ectropion, distichia.  They can also develop conjunctivitis from trauma or irritation.

Symptoms:

Both species will exhibit blinking, squinting, eye discharge (can be discolored), reddened conjunctiva, and sometimes symptoms of an upper respiratory infection. Some pet’s eyes will be matted shut due to excessive eye discharge.

Treatment:

After it is determined that a corneal ulcer is not also present, antibacterial ointment with steroid is generally prescribed. If the conjunctivitis is due to herpes virus or calicivirus, oral lysine or topical antiviral drugs can alleviate discomfort. It should be noted that cats diagnosed with herpes or calicivirus will be chronic carriers and may develop conjunctivitis intermittently for life. These pets should not be allowed to roam outside or infect other cats.If the conjunctivitis is due to an allergy, antihistamines or oral steroids can be beneficial, although treating the primary allergy is preferred.