Ophthalmology

Eye disorders are common in our four-legged companions. Whether it is a simple discharge or a more serious condition, it is important to consult quickly to preserve your animal's visual health.

What is Veterinary Ophthalmology?

The ophthalmology is the branch of medicine dedicated to the study of the eye, its annexes (paupières, lacrimal glands), and the treatment of diseases that affect them. Applied to our four-legged companionsVeterinary ophthalmology therefore has a specific interest in animal eye health.

Brown dog wearing large black glasses, symbolizing veterinary l-ophthalmology.

Common eye problems in dogs

Conjunctivitis

Dogs may suffer from various eye conditions, some benign and others more severe. Conjunctivitis in dogs is one of the most common conditions, characterized by redness, swelling and discharge at eye level. This inflammation can have various causes: allergies, foreign bodies, viral or bacterial infections.

Cataract

Dog cataract is also a common condition, especially in older animals or certain predisposed breeds. This opacification of the lens is manifested by a whitish appearance of the pupil and a gradual decrease in vision. If not treated, cataracts can evolve into complete blindness.

Other eye problems in dogs

Other problems such as corneal ulcers, glaucoma or palpebral abnormalities can also affect your dog's eye health and require appropriate management.

Common eye problems in cats

Eye discharge

Cats also have special features regarding eye disorders. The eyes that flow in the cat are often the sign of an underlying problem such as conjunctivitis, viral rhinotracheitis, or an obstruction of the tear ducts.

Corneal receivers

Cornean sequesters, specific to the feline species, are characterized by a black plate on the cornea and may require eye surgery cat in advanced cases. Luveitis, inflammation of the inner part of the eye, is also common in cats and may be related to various systemic diseases.

Ophthalmological Emergencies: When to Consult Quickly

7 warning signs not to be ignored

Some signs must alert you and warrant prompt consultation:

  • A red or closed eye
  • Frequent eye discharge
  • A change in eye appearance (opacity, color change)
  • Behaviour that indicates pain (frost, excessive blinking)
  • A difference in appearance between the two eyes
  • Loss of vision
  • Eye trauma

Conditions requiring immediate intervention

Rapid consultation is particularly important for certain conditions such as corneal ulcers or glaucoma, which can evolve very quickly and constitute real ophthalmological emergencies.

Veterinary eye care in Paris 17

At the Clinique Veterinaire Paris 17, we propose a first-intention ophthalmological examination to diagnose common eye conditions. This examination includes observation of eye attachments (paupières, conjunctiva), cornea assessment and measurement of intraocular pressure if necessary.

We can support:

  • Infectious or allergic conjunctivitis
  • Simple corneal ulcers
  • Surface foreign bodies
  • Palpebrain inflammations
  • Light eye trauma
  • Monitoring chronic diseases such as dry keratoconjunctivitis

Specialized veterinary ophthalmology: when to consult an expert

Pathologies requiring specialized expertise

Some eye conditions require the expertise of a veterinary specialist in ophthalmology. In these cases, we provide an initial diagnosis and direct you to a specialized veterinary ophthalmologist. This redirection is generally recommended for:

  • Cataract surgery by phacoemulsification
  • Advanced glaucoma requiring surgical treatment
  • Complex retinal disorders
  • Eye tumors
  • Serious eye trauma
  • Some congenital defects

Advanced technologies in veterinary ophthalmology

The specialist in veterinary ophthalmology has specific equipment such as operating microscope, electroretinography (ERG) or phacoemulsifier, allowing more complex interventions.

Frequently Asked Questions on Ophthalmology

Find here the answers to the most frequently asked questions on this subject.

No, contrary to some accepted ideas, there is no effective medical treatment to remove an established cataract. Only surgery can restore animal vision. However, surgical treatment is not systematic and depends on several factors such as the age of the animal and its general state of health.

It depends on the cause of conjunctivitis. If it is infectious (bacterial or viral), it can actually be contagious for other animals. Some zoonotic conjunctivitis may even be transmitted to humans, although it is rare. Allergic conjunctivitis, on the other hand, is not contagious.

Older animals can develop various age-related eye conditions such as cataract, retinal degeneration or simply ophthalmic dryness. Regular follow-up is recommended, with more frequent examinations from 7-8 years old. Gentle cleaning may be required in case of increased flow. See if you notice changes in the visual behaviour of your senior animal.

Eye discharges in cats can have several origins: infection, allergy, obstruction of the tear canals or respiratory disease. If these discharges persist for more than 24-48 hours, are coloured or accompanied by other signs such as redness or swelling, a veterinary consultation is recommended.

Something wrong with your pet's eyes? Act quickly!

Have you noticed a change in your dog's eyes or cat? Do not wait until the situation worsens and contact our veterinary clinic or a specialist.
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