Canine Glaucoma Treatment Cost: $75-$1,500
What is Glaucoma in Dogs?
Glaucoma is an ocular condition caused by the increase of the pressure inside the eye. It is a frequent cause of blindness in both humans and animals.
The fluid that fills the eyes keeps the eye pressure; this fluid is constantly moving in order to keep a balance. If there is an increased amount of this fluid inside the eye, the pressure increases and glaucoma develops.
This increased pressure causes pain and it can damage internal structures of the eyes, leading to blindness.
Two Types of Canine Glaucoma
- Primary Glaucoma: Occurs in young dogs with a genetic predisposition (around 2 year old). Genetically predisposed breeds include Basset Hounds, Beagles, Chihuahuas, Chow, Cocker Spaniel, Dachshund, Maltese, Miniature Poodle, Samoyed, Siberian Husky, among others.
- Secondary Glaucoma: Is the result of certain diseases, such as, infections, inflammation, injury, lens luxation, and tumors.
Symptoms of Canine Glaucoma
- Pupils of eyes different sizes
- Pain in the eyes
- Light avoidance
- Red eyes
- Rubbing the eyes on the floor or with the paws
- Presence of vessels in the white part of the eye
- Cloudy cornea (edema)
- Fluttering eye lid
- Squinting
- Tearing
- Appetite loss
- Weak blink response
- No response of pupil to light
- Vision problems
Canine Glaucoma Treatment
Treatment depends on cause and severity of the glaucoma. The main goal is to restore normal eye pressure; this can be achieved by decreasing fluid production and/or increasing fluid drainage. Pain management is also an important part of the treatment. If there is an underlying disease causing glaucoma, it should be treated as well. Some patients will need surgery.
Resources for glaucoma in dogs
1- The Merck Pet Health Manual-Glaucoma in Dogs
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