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
