How to prevent and treat common pet eye infections
How to Prevent and Treat Common Pet Eye Infections
Eye infections are a common problem in pets and can be caused by a variety of factors including bacteria viruses fungi and parasites. Fortunately there are steps that pet owners can take to prevent and treat these infections.
Prevention
The best way to prevent eye infections in pets is to keep their eyes clean and free of debris. This can be done by regularly wiping the eyes with a damp cloth or cotton ball. Additionally pet owners should make sure that their pet's eyes are not exposed to irritants such as smoke dust and pollen.
It is also important to keep the area around the eyes clean and dry. This can be done by regularly bathing the pet and using a mild shampoo. Additionally pet owners should check their pet's eyes for any signs of infection such as redness swelling or discharge.
Treatment
If an eye infection is suspected pet owners should take their pet to the veterinarian for a diagnosis and treatment. Depending on the cause of the infection the veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics anti-fungal medications or other medications.
In some cases the veterinarian may recommend that the pet's eyes be flushed with a saline solution to remove any debris or irritants. Additionally the veterinarian may recommend that the pet wear an Elizabethan collar to prevent them from rubbing or scratching their eyes.
Conclusion
Eye infections can be a serious problem for pets but they can be prevented and treated with proper care. Pet owners should keep their pet's eyes clean and free of debris and should check for any signs of infection. If an infection is suspected pet owners should take their pet to the veterinarian for a diagnosis and treatment.