Eye injuries in pets can be frightening, especially when they happen suddenly or in a vulnerable situation. Whether your pet has scratched their eye, been exposed to chemicals, or suffered a blunt force injury, emergency eye injuries in pets need to be addressed quickly to prevent long-term damage or vision loss.Pets rely heavily on their sense of sight, and a serious eye injury can affect their quality of life. Knowing how to recognize eye injuries, what to do until help arrives, and when to seek emergency veterinary care can make all the difference in preserving your pet’s vision and health.In this blog, we’ll guide you through common pet eye injuries, how to handle them until you can get to the vet, and why acting fast is so important.Common Types of Eye Injuries in PetsPets are at risk for various types of eye injuries, and these injuries can range from minor irritations to severe damage that requires urgent care. Here are some of the most common eye injuries in pets:
- Scratches or AbrasionsOne of the most common types of eye injury in pets is a corneal scratch or abrasion. Pets may inadvertently scratch their eye while playing, during a fight, or even by rubbing their face against something rough. A corneal scratch can be painful and, if untreated, can lead to infection or scarring, which could impact vision.
- Chemical ExposurePets can also suffer eye injuries if they come into contact with toxic substances like cleaning products, pesticides, or even human cosmetics. These chemicals can cause immediate irritation, burning sensations, or even chemical burns to the eye. If left untreated, the damage can worsen quickly, leading to permanent damage.
- Foreign Objects in the EyeForeign objects, such as dust, sand, or plant matter, can easily get into a pet’s eye, causing irritation, discomfort, and potential damage. If an object is embedded in the eye or causes significant injury, it can lead to more serious complications, including infection.
- Blunt Force TraumaPets can sustain eye injuries from blunt force trauma, such as being hit in the face, colliding with an object, or being struck by another animal. These injuries can lead to swelling, bruising, or more serious damage to the eye, such as a ruptured globe.
- Bleeding or LacerationsEye lacerations and bleeding may occur due to trauma or cuts from sharp objects. If the injury is deep or causes bleeding in the eye, immediate veterinary care is required to assess the damage and prevent further harm.
- Eye ProtrusionIn rare cases, pets can experience an injury where the eye bulges or protrudes from its socket. This is a serious emergency and requires immediate veterinary care to prevent permanent damage and potential loss of the eye.
