Dogs with this condition are typically middle-aged or older, and Boston Terriers. Your e-mail address will be used to confirm your account. Some cloudy eyes in dogs look like they have actual clouds in the lens, while others might look like there is something on the surface of your dogs eye clouding it up. These include Beagles, Labrador Retrievers, Basset Hounds, and Boston Terriers. Join in and write your own page! Infectious Diseases. Evening headlines from the Charleston Gazette-Mail, The latest in travel and recreation around West Virginia, The daily opinion newsletter from the Charleston Gazette-Mail. However, cloudy eyes can sometimes be hard to detect, especially if your dog relies more on their other senses, such as hearing and smell, to compensate. Other issues, such as seizures, may also cause changes to the eye, giving them a cloudy, faraway look. About | Contact | Podcasts | Reader Questions | Blog |Privacy Policy. There are two types of glaucoma: primary or inherited glaucoma, and secondary glaucoma, which is usually caused by another condition such as cataracts, a lens luxation or subluxation (where the lens shifts position in the eye), cancer, inflammation, or retinal detachment. Below, Ive outlined five common conditions that can cause blue or cloudy eyes whilesome are benign, others are very serious and can lead to total blindness. Though not technically a color change that occurs as the dog goes through different life stages, it is still a condition that interests most dog owners, especially if their dog has it. This is usually accompanied by scleritis, conjunctivitis, and excessive tear production depending on the severity of the trauma. Blue eyes can be a sign of Infectious canine hepatitis which is a disease of the liver and other organs caused by the adenovirus type 1. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. As they progress, they may appear bluish, reddish, or just as a haze on the surface of your dogs eye. Its important for your veterinarian or a veterinary ophthalmologist to determine whether a dog is suffering from primary or secondary glaucoma, because treatment may vary for each type, says Dr. Klein. Submitting this form below will send a message to your email with a link to change your password. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. A dogs eye is pretty similar to humans anatomically, with just a few differences. The pupils can have increased dilation, cloudiness over the lens, or the eyes can become red, swollen, or painful. Blue or cloudy eyes are just one sign of aging. Corneal Ulcer 8. My 13 year old male shih Tzu got an eye infection, been treating it but has not helped. While the exact mechanism is poorly understood, it appears that the lens gradually becomes harder with age. Causes of Iris Atrophy in Dogs. Comments or suggestions can be submitted the same way. Breeds most prone include German Shepherds, Collies, Huskies, and related breeds. Get the Dog Health Guide Newsletter for Exclusive Content! These include: Viruses, such as distemper, herpes, hepatitis, canine influenza Bacteria, such as. Chance of rain 100%. We have merged with BetterVet! This is a sub for professional veterinary advice, and as such we follow strict rules for participating. This is the name that will be displayed next to your photo for comments, blog posts, and more. Prompt diagnosis is important. Fluorescein stains are the top diagnostic tool for corneal injuries. Nuclear Sclerosis isnt painful and veterinarians say dogs should be able to adapt to any minor vision changes, meaning they should still be able to see. Cataracts can appear in one or both eyes and it can progress at varying rates. There are other symptoms of dry eye besides cloudy eyes. Video call a licensed vet to get expert advice. We always give our honest opinions, findings, beliefs, or experiences. Here are some of the most common causes of eye cloudiness, and what to do: Injuries to the eye encompass a wide variety of signs and symptoms, such as bulging, visible wounds, proptosis (bulging), and cloudiness. Eye injuries can occur for several reasons, including trauma to the eye from a bite, scratches from foreign objects, or inflammation due to underlying illness leading to swelling and bulging. Inside, the eyes are divided into two chambers: the anterior and posterior chambers. With more severe cases, surgical intervention by a veterinary ophthalmologist may be recommended. If not treated promptly, it can damage the eyes nerve and cause blindness. Prevention is difficult in the case of infections, but regular monitoring of the eyes and keeping them free from dirt and debris can help. This is the reason why its concerning for dog owners if they see any changes appearing in their dogs eyes. Dogs are good at compensating for loss of vision in one eye by relying on the other eye, so it is often difficult to detect. Your veterinarian will do a pressure check and if it is too low, the likely hood of uveitis is real. We invite you to take your pet to the veterinarian if they are suffering from any condition or pain. Cataracts cloud the eye lens and can cause either partial or complete loss of vision. So there are lots of reasons for blue eyes in dogs. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. If you notice changes to your dogs vision, including clouding of the eyes, a visit to your vet is always best. EDIT: Took her to our normal vet (Banfield) and they said they weren't sure and sent us to a larger animal hospital who had ophthalmologists on site. Cataracts bring a worse prognosis for vision and can lead to complete vision loss if untreated. While Dr. Scarlett mentions most dogs experience an eye color change to dark brown, some dog breeds have different eye colors. Small, toy breed dogs can be more predisposed, but any dog can develop the condition. While not a specific cause of cloudy eyes, emergencies do warrant their own mention. Some of the breeds most commonly affected include the Australian Shepherd, Bichon Frise, Boston Terrier, French Bulldog, American Staffordshire Terrier, Havanese, Silky Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, Poodle, Cocker Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, Siberian Husky, and West Highland White Terrier. As we have stated throughout the article, the development of blue eyes in dogs are the result of hepatitis or a degeneration which occurs due to age. Pet eye colors may have to do with age. Good luck. Cataracts are characterized as white and opaque. In rarer cases, fungal infections and viruses such as hepatitis can cause eye inflammation. The anterior chamber has aqueous humor that provides nourishment for the other parts. The changes to their eyes happen gradually and it is not painful. Often times we see this in pets with diabetes and it will result in blindness over time. Does she have cataracts or something? You have questions, we have answers. This increase in pressure causes damage to the internal structures of the eyes, leading to visual changes and can eventually cause blindness. Albino dogs, also known as C-series, show a massive loss of pigment through their entire body, also resulting in a pink nose and blue eyes. A dog develops a cataract when the lens of the eye clouds, which is caused by changes in the water balance in the lens or changes to the proteins within the lens. Click here to stay informed and subscribe to the Mountain States Trusted News Source. By acting quickly you just might save her vision and keep those beautiful eyes sparkling again. Bumping into things. A bluish tinge to the globe can indicate increased pressure within the eyeball, which is glaucoma. Nuclear Sclerosis isn't painful and veterinarians say dogs should be able to adapt to any minor vision changes, meaning they should still be able to see. It is important to diagnose this early to save the dog's sight in the eye. From there, treatment depends on the underlying cause of the injury. Glaucoma is also something we see in animals. Nothing came of it. You have permission to edit this article. Dogs eye turned blue/cloudy overnight EDIT: Took her to our normal vet (Banfield) and they said they weren't sure and sent us to a larger animal hospital who had ophthalmologists on site. In more severe cases, referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist is best for more tailored treatment. White spots on the eyes. The most common causes of cloudy eyes in senior dogs are nuclear sclerosis and cataracts. Looking for a convenient way to access your pets health records, refill prescriptions, view upcoming appointments and more? A: I would have your veterinarian check her eyes to be sure of the diagnosis as soon as you can. This is often what has happened when pet parents begin to notice blue eyes in an older dog. Even when a dog recovers, the blue or white colorations over the eye might remain. Dogs who recover can shed the virus for up to 9 months in their urine. This is done by applying a stain to the eye and then shining a fluorescent light over it. Your dog may rub at the affected eye, show pain when the eye is touched, or may have visible clouding or injury to the cornea. Cloudy eyes can be scary when spotted, but treatment can help your dog remain healthy and happy. Unlike nuclear sclerosis, cataracts in dogs cause vision impairment which can lead to total blindness if not managed properly. No she went in for a regular check up. Uveitis happens when theres inflammation or a significant injury to the eye, either due to an infection or deep corneal ulceration. Cloudy eyes can be a symptom of a variety of eye problems, and some can be painful for your dog. After all, we dont want our dogs to lose their vision or be uncomfortable. A veterinarian is the best person to diagnose the cause of your dogs cloudy eyes, and your general practice doctor may refer you to a specialist in veterinary ophthalmology for further treatment. This condition is known to be painful and often leaves dogs squinting and pawing at their eyes. Glaucoma is usually diagnosed with a tool called a tonometer. Your account has been registered, and you are now logged in. This will occur about 10 days after the dog has been exposed to the virus and become infected. Areas of injury will glow brightly. Reasons Your Dog's Eyes Turn Cloudy Suddenly 1. Given the speed with which this happened, I would consider this a medical emergency. Puppies may be born with blue eyes but experience a color change a few weeks later. If you notice your dog has cloudy eyes, and is experiencing the symptoms of an emergency, it is best to seek out veterinary care from your vet or an emergency clinic right away. Tests such as eye stains to rule out injury, bloodwork to check for systemic illnesses, and visual examination of the eye can all help narrow down the cause behind the inflammation. Untreated, glaucoma is a very painful eye condition which can lead to blindness. As part of a puppy's initial vaccinations and their yearly boosters, a vaccination against CAV-1 is given. In chronic cases of dry eye, the surface can scar, creating a cloudy, dull appearance. Glaucoma in dogs occurs when the pressure inside the eye increases, resulting in damage to the structures in the eye. Some humans have hazel eyes that may change color throughout their lives, possibly achieving two completely different colors during the same day. Instead, the symptoms themselves are addressed. Are You Choosing The Right Food For Your Pet. The subscription couldnt be completed. My number one rule out would be corneal edema (swelling of the surface of the dog's eye). Treatment generally involves medicated eye drops or ointments such as Terramycin, but may also include an oral antibiotic or pain medication depending on severity. More and more proteins gather, eventually clouding the entire lens. Treating any primary conditions such as bacterial or fungal infections, or underlying systemic health issues will usually help resolve the eye inflammation. However, there are some subtle signs to watch out for that can indicate an issue with the eyes. It changes the color of the lenses from transparent to almost white in severe cases. It has a clear outer protective barrier called the cornea and a white fleshy part called the sclera. Your veterinarian will lay out a plan to treat your dogs cloudy eyes if treatment is necessary. Both epithelial and endothelial cornea dystrophy can cause ulcers that require treatment, but there is no cure for corneal dystrophy. This usually effects both eyes and is not painful. This can also reduce secondary infections and inflammation. The most common causes of cloudy eyes in senior dogs are nuclear sclerosis and cataracts. Nuclear sclerosis, also known as lenticular sclerosis, is described as the change in the color of the dog's lenses. I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Eye color changes in dogs or cats can also indicate an infection of the iris or cornea conditions according to Dr. Scarlett. Out of curiosity, did she have anything done at her recent check up? There is no specific treatment for lenticular sclerosis, nor is treatment necessary. The aqueous humor found in the anterior chamber of the eye is constantly being produced and drained, maintaining a certain level of pressure inside the eye. Other signs of an emergency include visible distress or pain. Glaucoma is hard to prevent, especially as it can be very slow to progress and hard for owners to detect. Diagnosis includes an eye exam and sometimes a test to measure the amount of tear production and moisture in the eye. Nuclear Sclerosis is a hardening of the eyes' lenses and is common in older dogs. The change in color of the eye is due to edema, i.e. Some are normal and some will result in vision loss and pain. They are: Interstitial keratitis caused by infectious canine hepatitis. Causes of Dog Eye Infections As in humans, there are many causes of dog eye infections. Glaucoma 6. Lenticular sclerosis can affect vision, but only if the lens grows very dense, something not common in dogs. For the former, it is important to know what symptoms exist so that they can be treated and help the body to overcome the hepatitis. Treatment depends on the underlying issue. In neither of the two causes is a direct treatment administered. It is caused by the same virus that causes infectioushepatitis," according to WebMD. Cataracts are characterized by the increase in the opacity of the lenses of the dogs eyes. This results in one of their eyes being bluish or white. The eyes can be given a whitish coloration, but the eye turning blue can also occur. With these diseases, the eyes are not likely to turn blue. However, if you travel frequently with your dog in the car with the window down, or on bikes or other locations with flying debris, pet goggles are beneficial to avoid dirt and debris from causing scratches. The sooner you get your dog in for care, the better the chances of keeping the eye intact for a full recovery. Symptoms of Glaucoma include conjucntivits (red eye), discharge from the eye, light sensativity, possible swollen eye. Individual dogs respond in various ways, depending on a number of factors. liquid filling up between the layers of cells. Whether it is due to advancement in age or something more immediate, we need to act quickly to get the best prognosis for our dog. Teach your dog commands such as "watch," as observed by the nonprofit Best Friends, to make him aware he's approaching a hindrance. Unfortunately they didn't have one there and they did a few tests to see if the top layer of her eye was cut. Bloodwork may also be helpful in checking for systemic illnesses. About a month ago i noticed that both his eyes were slightly cloudy but that was expected because of his age (10 years old). Cataracts can start small and grow large, or they can appear overnight and completely blind your dog. However, there are some other conditions that can also create a cloudy appearance in your dogs eyes that require immediate veterinary attention. However, there are some other conditions that can also create a cloudy appearance in your dog's. But for a dog that doesn't naturally have blue eyes, a blue eye could indicate a disease called interstitial keratitis, "a corneal inflammation in which a bluish-white film appears over the clear window of the eye. There are several diseases in the eyes that can cause a blue haze to fill the front chamber or the cornea. If your dog's eyes are bloodshot and bulging, it may have glaucoma. An Elizabethan (cone) collar is also best in keeping your dog from rubbing or pawing the eye, reducing inflammation during the healing process. Puppies' eyes are closed for up to the first two weeks of their lives. If you want to read similar articles to My Dog Has Blue Eyes - Causes and Treatment, we recommend you visit our Other health problems category. In severe cases, a surgical procedure may be necessary to address the cause of the secondary glaucoma or to make your dog more comfortable. AKC actively advocates for responsible dog ownership and is dedicated to advancing dog sports. Once your dog is awake, your vet will likely prescribe medications. Airedale Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Samoyeds, and Weimaraners are predisposed to this condition. If a cataract develops, it can be surgically corrected, and this procedure should be pursued early in the course of the disease for best results. Both dogs and cats can experience eye color changes in their lifetimes. Answer a few simple questions and find the right dog for you, Compare up to 5 different breeds side by side, Browse the AKC Marketplace to find the right puppy for you, Browse our extensive library of dog names for inspiration, Find out the best and worst foods for your dog and which to avoid. This means that it can then be eliminated from the body via various secretions. A message to your vet is always best concerning for dog owners if they see changes! 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