What happens at an eye exam?

An eye exam is a very important part of your pet’s wellness. It gives you an opportunity to discuss the health of their eyes with your veterinarian, as well as any concerns that you might have about them. During an eye exam, your vet will look for signs of infection, inflammation, or other issues in the eyes. It’s crucial to always bring your pet in for an examination at the first sign of discomfort or unusual behavior around the eyes.

How do I know if my pet has eye problems?

The eyes are the window to your pet’s health. Here are some symptoms to watch out for if you suspect there may be a problem:

  • Eyelid discharge
  • Cloudiness of the eye
  • Inflammation of the eyelids or conjunctiva (the membrane that covers the sclera and cornea)
  • Squinting of the eyes due to irritation, pain, or sensitivity to light
  • Pawing, clawing, or itching at the eyes
  • Abnormal behavior or aggression when touching the face or eye area

Some other symptoms that could indicate vision issues include trouble seeing or walking into objects, and anxiety in new places or areas.

Causes of eye problems

Common causes of eye problems include aging, disease, or hereditary conditions associated with certain breeds. Other causes include:

  • Diabetes
  • Cataracts
  • Glaucoma
  • Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Treatments

In general, vision loss and other eye problems do not go away on their own. Early diagnosis and intervention is the best method when it comes to the treatment of vision and eye problems. Very serious cases can sometimes be a symptom of a larger medical condition, which means making an appointment for an examination with your veterinarian is the best way to diagnose this and prevent further complications.

At VIP Animal Hospital, we offer comprehensive eye exams for pets. They are non-invasive and only take a few minutes. The eye exam will help us determine if there are any diseases affecting your pet’s vision. If your pet needs an eye exam, contact us today to schedule your appointment!

VIP Difference: Same day appointments always available!

We will never delay taking care of your pet's health. Your pet is VERY IMPORTANT and we will see you TODAY! Call now to schedule a visit or just come on in!