Why is one of my dog's eyes tearing up? - briefly
There could be several reasons why your dog's eye is tearing up. It might be due to irritants like dust or allergens, an infection such as conjunctivitis, or even a blocked tear duct. It's important to observe the eye for any signs of redness, discharge, or swelling and consult with a veterinarian if the condition persists or worsens.
Why is one of my dog's eyes tearing up? - in detail
One of the most common reasons for excessive tearing in dogs is a condition known as "dry eye," or keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). Despite its name, dry eye occurs when the tear glands do not produce enough tears to keep the eyes lubricated and healthy. This can lead to an overproduction of tears by the remaining functional tear glands in an attempt to compensate for the deficiency.
Other possible causes of tearing in dogs include:
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Conjunctivitis: Inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the thin layer of tissue that covers the white part of the eye and lines the eyelids. This can be caused by allergies, irritants, or infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
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Corneal Ulcers: Scratches or abrasions on the surface of the eye (cornea) can also cause excessive tearing. These ulcers can be painful and may require veterinary treatment to prevent further damage.
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Eyelash Issues: Ingrown eyelashes, known as distichiasis, or eyelashes that are too long and rub against the eye, can irritate the cornea and cause tearing.
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Blocked Tear Ducts: If the tear ducts become blocked, tears cannot drain properly from the eyes, leading to excessive tearing. This can be caused by various factors including infections or trauma.
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Foreign Bodies: Small particles such as dust, grass seeds, or other foreign objects can get stuck in the eye and cause irritation and tearing.
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Glaucoma: Increased pressure within the eye due to glaucoma can also lead to excessive tearing. This condition is often painful and requires prompt veterinary attention.
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Allergies: Allergic reactions in dogs can cause eye irritation and excessive tearing. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, and certain foods.
If your dog is experiencing persistent tearing in one or both eyes, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The vet may perform various tests such as the Schirmer Tear Test (STT) to measure tear production, fluorescein staining to check for corneal ulcers, or other diagnostic procedures based on the suspected cause of the tearing.
Treatment options will depend on the underlying cause and may include topical eye drops or ointments, antibiotics if an infection is present, anti-inflammatory medications, or in severe cases, surgery to correct structural abnormalities like distichiasis or to address blocked tear ducts.
Regular monitoring of your dog's eyes and prompt veterinary care are essential for maintaining eye health and preventing potential complications from excessive tearing.