Central Virginia Veterinary Clinic in Louisa, VA, is the premier veterinarian clinic in central Virginia. Our experienced vet and professional staff are dedicated to providing the best care possible for every pet that enters our doors. If your pet suffers from an ear condition or eye condition, we have the leading technologies to treat it and get your pet back to wellness.
Ear or eye conditions can arise from several factors. From allergies to disease and old age, we focus on pinpointing the cause and treating it with the utmost compassion. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments for ear or eye conditions in your pet, you can tell your vet what you observed.
Ear Conditions and Eye Conditions in Your Pet
Ear and eye conditions are common in pets. There are various types, causes, and severities. Sometimes, the source is difficult to pinpoint. Therefore, it is helpful to observe your pet's interactions with its environment and surroundings.
The following are some of the causes and symptoms of ear and eye conditions.
Causes and Symptoms of an Ear Condition
Airborne Allergies
Airborne allergens like pollen or grass often cause itchy, irritating skin around and in the ears. Regular bathing to remove the allergens and giving your pet antihistamines usually ease the discomfort.
Food Allergies
Food allergies typically come from beef, chicken, eggs, and dairy products, and they cause itchy skin around and in the ears. Discuss diet changes with your vet to avoid food allergy reactions.
Bacterial Infections
Bacteria love the warmth of your pet's ears, inside and out. It can create a painful situation for your pet but is often resolved with a medicated shampoo recommended by your vet.
Yeast Infections
Yeast infections are created from the excess oil produced by an allergic reaction to your pet's skin. It is easily remedied by applying a topical anti-fungal treatment your vet recommends.
Mites
Mites are microscopic insects that embed inside an animal's ears. They create a horrible itching situation. Anti-parasitic medications are available to kill these pesky mites and ease your pet's pain.
Foreign Objects
Sometimes, small foreign objects get lodged inside an animal's ear and create an uncomfortable situation. In this case, your vet will need to carefully remove the item, so it doesn't damage the ear canal or inner ear.
Causes and Symptoms of an Eye Condition
Cherry Eye
Cherry Eye is a condition where one of the animal's eyelids has weakened ligaments that allow the gland to pop out, giving it the appearance of a cherry. Your vet will need to perform a procedure to repair the gland.
Corneal Wounds
Injuries, cuts, or scratches can occur to the outer tissue of the eyeball, called the cornea. The animal will rub or paw the eye because of the uncomfortable itching sensation. Your vet will prescribe drops or ointment to heal this condition.
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca or Dry Eye
Dry eye occurs when the tear glands don't function properly, leaving the eye drier than normal. Tears are essential to keep the eye moist and remove debris, so your vet will recommend a suitable treatment for your pet.
Conjunctivitis or Pink Eye
Pink eye is inflammation of the conjunctiva, causing redness, swelling, drainage, and discomfort. Your vet will need to prescribe the appropriate medication for this condition.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a disruption in the eye that causes pressure. Your pet may experience pain, eye redness, crying, a cloudy cornea, or dilated pupils. If not treated by a veterinarian immediately, glaucoma can lead to blindness.
Cataracts
Cataracts are cloudy, opaque coverings on the lens of the eyes. They block light coming into the eye and result in poor vision or blindness. Consult with your vet about the benefits of cataract surgery for your pet.
Entropion
Entropion is a condition that causes the eyelids to roll inward, allowing hair to rub the eye's surface. It is painful and can cause severe damage to the cornea. Again, talk to your vet about options to treat this condition.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive retinal atrophy is a condition that can cause a pet to go blind. It is difficult to spot and diagnose and often isn't recognized until the pet has reached the blind stage. There is no remedy for this condition.
The only way to get an accurate diagnosis for your pet is through your veterinarian. Once it is made, your vet can create a treatment plan to keep your pet happy and healthy.
Our Treatments for an Ear Condition or Eye Condition
Don't wait to visit your vet. At Central Virginia Veterinary Clinic, we have treatments and therapies to help your pet with any ear or eye condition. These conditions can turn serious if left untreated or treatment is delayed. Our clinic offers high-quality, compassionate care customized for your pet.
Some of the services we offer include:
- medicated shampoos, topical solutions, eye drops, and ear rinses
- topical solutions to treat the skin against bacteria and infection
- prescriptions for medications
- injections
- nutrition and dietary guidance
- preventative solutions
- surgery, if needed
Get Relief for an Ear Condition or Eye Condition in Your Pet Today
Get relief for your pet today at Centra Virginia Veterinary Clinic in Louisa, VA. Don't wait until it becomes a bigger problem or your pet continues to suffer. We can help. There are many treatment options available.
Call our office today at (540) 967-1404 to schedule your pet's appointment. Relief for your pet's ear or eye condition is a phone call away.