A balanced diet, supply of fresh water and annual vaccination are among the main essential measures to ensure the well-being of pets. However, the health care routine goes further and also includes eye care. With the greater concern of owners for their dogs and cats, veterinary ophthalmology has gained a prominent role.

According to data from PetCenso Saúde — a survey by Petlove that considers the brand’s entire ecosystem, especially health plans —, the ophthalmology It is among the five most requested specialties for both dogs and cats. According to Pedro Risolia, veterinarian at Petlove, the high demand reflects the need for attention to problems that tend to evolve silently or be confused with natural signs of old age.

“Ophthalmological consultations are essential not only to treat, but to prevent. The main conditions that affect pets are keratoconjunctivitis sicca (known as dry eye disease), cataracts, glaucoma, corneal ulcers, uveitis and conjunctivitis. When the general practitioner and the ophthalmological specialist work together, the chances of success and reversal of the conditions are greater”, he states.

Warning signs of eye problems

The animal’s behavior at home can be the first indication for the owner that something is not going well with its vision and/or eyes. Warning signs such as excessive tearing (or lack thereof), red or opaque eyes (with a whitish/bluish appearance), excess thick secretions, sensitivity to light, excessive blinking, apathy or the animal starting to bump into furniture should not be ignored.

Furthermore, pets Brachycephalic breeds (with a short snout and bulging eyes), such as pug, shih tzu, bulldogs and Persian cats require even more attention as they are more prone to eye trauma and dryness.

“The big challenge is that ophthalmic problems progress and can cause irreversible vision loss. Therefore, early diagnosis with an ophthalmologist, using advanced exams such as ocular ultrasound, intraocular pressure measurement (in cases of glaucoma) and electroretinography, can make a difference in maintaining quality of life”, reinforces Pedro Risolia.

Daily care helps with prevention

In addition to medical monitoring, preventing vision problems in animals involves simple everyday habits. Pedro Risolia reveals that daily and delicate cleaning around the eyes with gauze or cotton moistened in saline or cleaning solutions pet Keeping the hair around the eyes trimmed and protecting against strong winds are essential factors in preventing injuries and irritation.

“It is also crucial to protect the corners of the house to avoid accidents and, under no circumstances, use human eye drops or any medication without the strict prescription of a veterinarian”, adds the professional.

Veterinary monitoring is essential

In addition to care at home, regular veterinary care is essential to maintain the health of your pet’s eyes. “Pets Taken annually or semi-annually for routine ophthalmological consultations, changes are diagnosed long before a more severe crisis. Frequent monitoring and pay attention to signs in everyday life are the greatest allies for visual longevity […]”, concludes Pedro Risolia.

By Ana Guimarães