When should I call a vet for my dog’s eye discharge? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog has eye discharge, it’s worth calling a vet if the discharge is thick, yellow, green or bloody, if the eye looks red or painful, or if your dog is squinting, keeping the eye closed, or rubbing at it. Mild clear discharge can sometimes happen with irritation or dust, but ongoing or worsening signs should be checked.
There are several possible causes, from simple irritation to infection, blocked tear ducts, allergy, or a scratch on the eye, so it’s best not to assume it’s minor if it doesn’t settle quickly.
Things To Check
1. Note the colour and thickness of the discharge. Clear and watery is different from thick, yellow, green or bloody discharge.
2. Check whether one eye or both eyes are affected, as this can sometimes help you spot irritation versus a wider issue.
3. Look for redness, swelling, cloudiness, or whether your dog is keeping the eye partly closed.
4. See if your dog is pawing at the eye, rubbing their face, or avoiding bright light.
5. Think about whether it started after a walk, windy weather, grooming, play, or exposure to dust, smoke or pollen.
6. Check for any injury, grass seed, speck of dirt, or a scratch around the eye area, but do not poke into the eye itself.
7. Watch for changes in appetite, energy, or behaviour, especially if the eye problem seems painful or keeps coming back.
Common Causes
The most common reasons are mild irritation from dust, wind or grooming, or a small amount of watery discharge linked to allergies.
Conjunctivitis can also cause discharge, often with redness and a sticky or gunky look.
Blocked tear ducts, a scratch on the eye, or a foreign body can also lead to ongoing discharge and discomfort.
Less commonly, eye discharge may be linked to more serious eye conditions that need prompt veterinary assessment, especially if the eye looks painful, cloudy or suddenly worse.
What To Do
Gently wipe away any discharge with clean cotton wool or gauze dampened with cooled boiled water or sterile saline, using a fresh piece for each wipe.
Keep your dog from rubbing the eye, and try to limit dusty, windy or smoky exposure if that seems to make it worse.
Monitor whether the discharge changes, how quickly it returns, and whether both eyes are affected.
If the eye looks sore, the discharge keeps coming back, or it is not improving within a day or two, book a vet check rather than trying to manage it yourself.
When To Contact A Vet
Call your vet promptly if the discharge is thick, yellow, green or bloody, if your dog is squinting, holding the eye closed, or seems painful, or if the eye is red, swollen or cloudy. You should also get advice if the discharge follows an injury, happens after a possible scratch or grass seed, or doesn’t improve quickly.
Products That May Help
If your dog gets a bit messy around the eyes or face, gentle grooming and regular cleaning can help you keep an eye on changes and reduce everyday build-up. A simple pet care routine may also make it easier to notice when discharge is becoming more than just a minor irritation.
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.