Here are some of the most commonly asked questions that new patients have about canine glaucoma. If you have a question that you don’t see answered here, check the community message boards here.
Q: What is canine glaucoma?
A: Canine glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve and can eventually lead to blindness. It is characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP) within the eye.
Q: What are the signs of canine glaucoma?
A: The signs of canine glaucoma can include redness, cloudiness, or bluing of the eye, pain, squinting, increased tearing, and vision loss.
Q: What causes canine glaucoma?
A: Canine glaucoma can have a genetic component, and certain breeds are more susceptible to the disease. Other factors that can contribute to the development of glaucoma include trauma to the eye, inflammation, or other eye diseases.
Q: How is canine glaucoma diagnosed?
A: Canine glaucoma is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam that includes measurement of intraocular pressure, examination of the optic nerve, and evaluation of the eye’s drainage system.
Q: What is the treatment for canine glaucoma?
A: Treatment for canine glaucoma typically involves reducing intraocular pressure through medications, laser therapy, or surgery. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be necessary.
Q: Is there a cure for canine glaucoma?
A: Currently, there is no cure for canine glaucoma. Treatment focuses on managing the disease and preventing vision loss.
Q: Will a dog with glaucoma go blind?
A: Yes, without proper treatment, glaucoma can eventually lead to blindness. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can help preserve vision for as long as possible.
Q: Can canine glaucoma be prevented?
A: While there is no guaranteed way to prevent canine glaucoma, regular eye exams and early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the disease and prevent or delay vision loss. In some cases, genetic testing may be available to identify dogs at higher risk for developing glaucoma.
Q: Are certain dog breeds more susceptible to glaucoma?
A: Yes, certain dog breeds are more susceptible to developing glaucoma, including Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, Beagles, Boston Terriers, and Siberian Huskies, among others. It is important to note, however, that any dog can develop glaucoma.
Q: What should I do if I suspect my dog has glaucoma?
A: If you suspect your dog may have glaucoma, it is important to take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible for a comprehensive eye exam. Early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve vision for as long as possible.
Q: Can glaucoma affect both of a dog’s eyes?
A: Yes, glaucoma can affect both of a dog’s eyes, although it may not occur simultaneously in both eyes.
Q: Can glaucoma in dogs be painful?
A: Yes, glaucoma in dogs can be very painful and may cause the dog to show signs of discomfort, such as rubbing their eyes, squinting, or pawing at their face.
Q: Can glaucoma in one eye affect the other eye?
A: Yes, glaucoma in one eye can increase the risk of glaucoma developing in the other eye, particularly if the underlying cause of the glaucoma is genetic.
Q: Is glaucoma in dogs contagious to other dogs or humans?
A: No, glaucoma in dogs is not contagious to other dogs or humans.
Q: How often should a dog with glaucoma be seen by a veterinarian?
A: Dogs with glaucoma should be seen by a veterinarian regularly for monitoring and management of the disease. The frequency of visits will depend on the severity of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment.