Cloudy eyes in dogs can be a very concerning condition. The area of the eye that is more likely to be affected by what is described as “opaque”, “cloudy”, “foggy”, “misty” or “blue” in the cornea, the outermost structure of our eye.
The appearance of a healthy eye, should be clear and there should be no discharge around the eyelids, at the middle corner of the eye or protrusion of the membrane, known as third eyelid at the middle corner of the eye.
4 common causes of cloudy eyes in dogs
When the appearance of the eye(s) change, the following most common conditions might be causing a problem:
- Senile changes, known as corneal endothelial dystrophy, seen usually in dogs older than 8 years old. The “clouding” is usually present in both eyes and doesn’t tend to cause pain, discomfort or discharge. However, complications of this condition can lead to secondary problems (such as a corneal ulcer)
- Corneal ulceration is a painful condition that can lead to changes in the clarity of the eye and make the surface of the eye look opaque, misty or foggy. This, in most cases, is a painful condition and requires veterinary attention
- Glaucoma is the medical term which describes an increase in the pressure of the eye. This is a very painful and vision threatening condition, that requires emergency veterinary attention.
- Uveitis is the medical term which describes inflammation in the eye and can be caused by a variety of underlying diseases or injuries to the eye. It is a painful and vision threatening condition that requires urgent veterinary attention.
In addition to the above-mentioned changes which tend to affect the surface of the eye, conditions affecting the lens of the eye can lead to clouding of the eye. The most common conditions that dogs can suffer from are:
- Cataract which is the change in the appearance of the lens from transparent to completely opaque and white, causing compromise of vision or blindness.
- Luxation of the lens which is the dislocation of the lens from its normal position, leading to impairment of vision and pain. This condition requires emergency veterinary attention.
- Nuclear sclerosis is a normal, senile change of the eye and is not associated with discomfort or visual impairment.
What should I do if my dog’s eyes are cloudy?
Unfortunately, in most cases clouding of the eye is associated with a serious condition that can lead to impairment of your dog’s vision. Therefore, it is very important to seek veterinary attention in the first instance.
Following the initial assessment by your vets, they will then guide you regarding the next steps and if further treatment is required, they can recommend an appointment with one of our specialists.
Concerned about your dog’s eyes?
If your pet experiences one or more of the symptoms above, we are here for you. Request an appointment and get in touch with one of our specialised ophthalmologists.
Also, feel free to explore our prices. Your pet’s health is in good hands!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can cloudy eyes in dogs go away on their own?
Whenever an underlying medical condition leads to clouding of the eye, complete resolution of the problem without medication is highly unlikely
2. How quickly should I see a vet if my dog’s eyes look cloudy?
As soon as possible as most of the conditions leading to clouding can cause visual impairment if ignored or left untreated.