What should I do if my dog’s eye is red after a knock or bump?
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Overview
If your dog’s eye is red after a knock or bump, treat it as something to watch closely. It might be a simple surface irritation, but eye injuries can also be more than they first appear, so it’s sensible to check the eye carefully and get vet advice if you’re unsure.
Things To Check
1. Look at whether your dog is squinting, blinking more than usual, pawing at the eye or keeping it closed.
2. Check for redness in the white of the eye, swelling around the eyelids, or a tear-stained or watery appearance.
3. See if there is any discharge, blood, a scratch on the eye surface, or visible dirt or plant material.
4. Notice whether the pupil looks different from the other eye, or whether the eye seems cloudy or unusually sensitive to light.
5. Check if the redness is getting worse, rather than settling down over a short period.
6. Think about what happened before it started, such as running through rough ground, playing, grooming, or a direct knock.
7. Watch for other signs your dog feels unwell, such as quietness, head rubbing, or reluctance to eat.
Common Causes
The most common cause is mild surface irritation from the bump itself, which may leave the eye looking red and a little watery.
A small scratch to the surface of the eye can also happen, especially if the knock involved grass, dust or a claw.
Sometimes the eyelids or the skin around the eye are bruised or swollen, which can make the eye look more red than it is.
Less commonly, a more serious eye injury may be present, especially if the eye is cloudy, painful, or not opening properly.
What To Do
Keep your dog calm and stop any rubbing or scratching if you can. Avoid using human eye drops or any home remedies, as these can make things worse.
If there is visible dirt on the outside around the eye, gently wipe it away with clean, damp cotton wool or gauze, using a fresh piece for each wipe and working from the corner outwards.
Watch the eye closely over the next few hours. If the redness is mild and seems to be settling, continue to monitor for any change in comfort, discharge or swelling.
If the eye looks sore, your dog is squinting, or the redness is not improving, get veterinary advice promptly. Eye problems are one of those things where it’s better not to wait and see for too long.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact a vet the same day if your dog is squinting, holding the eye closed, has cloudiness, bleeding, a visible scratch, marked swelling, or seems painful. You should also call promptly if the redness is getting worse, there’s discharge, or the eye was hit quite hard.
Products That May Help
If your dog has a minor eye knock, it can help to keep their face and surrounding coat clean and avoid adding irritation while you monitor the eye. arlo.® Pet Care may be useful as part of a calm, routine grooming setup.
Related Questions
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Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.