Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the tissue coating the eye and lining the eyelids. Normally, the conjunctiva is moist and glistening with tiny blood vessels coursing through the semilucent tissue. It serves as a protective barrier for the eye by trapping debris and helping to prevent invasion of viruses and bacteria.

Conjunctivitis is a common eye problem in dogs. It may be the only eye disease present, or may be associated with other diseases or eye problems.

Causes

Viral infections that affect the eye, such as canine distemper

Bacterial eye infections

Certain parasites of the conjunctiva or eyelids

Corneal diseases

Disorders of the tear ducts or of tear production

Eyelid infections or abnormalities

Exposure to foreign material such as plant material, fibers, sand and chemicals

Trauma

Allergies

Idiopathic, meaning that no cause is ever defined

Other illnesses, such as skin diseases, that can affect the eyelids and conjunctiva

What to Watch For

Redness of the eyes

Eye discharge

Swelling of the conjunctiva

Squinting or excessive blinking

Occasional pawing or rubbing at the eyes