Dry Eye in Pets: Expert Ophthalmic Care for Comfort and Lasting Vision

Your dog’s eyes look red and irritated. Your cat blinks constantly or has thick discharge that won’t clear, no matter how often you wipe it away. These may seem like minor issues, but they can signal dry eye syndrome– a chronic condition that, without treatment, can lead to severe pain, infection, or even vision loss.

At Veterinary Vision Center in Shreveport, our board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist specializes in diagnosing and managing complex ocular diseases like dry eye. Using advanced technology, precision testing, and personalized care, we help restore your pet’s comfort and protect their sight.

What Is Dry Eye in Pets (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)?

Dry eye syndrome, medically known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), occurs when the tear glands don’t produce enough aqueous (watery) tears or when the tear film is poor in quality. This tear film is essential for protecting the cornea- the clear, outer surface of the eye- from debris, bacteria, and inflammation.

Tears aren’t just water. A healthy tear film has three layers:

  • Lipid layer (oil) – produced by meibomian glands in the eyelids to prevent evaporation.
  • Aqueous layer (water) – produced by the lacrimal and third eyelid glands, containing nutrients and antibodies.
  • Mucin layer (mucus) – produced by conjunctival goblet cells to help tears spread evenly across the cornea.

When any part of this system fails, the eye becomes dry and inflamed. The surface can develop tiny erosions that cause pain and squinting. Over time, this chronic irritation triggers scarring and pigmentation that cloud the cornea and reduce vision- even if the eye remains intact.

Why Some Pets Are More Vulnerable

Breed and Anatomical Factors

Certain breeds are genetically predisposed to tear film dysfunction. Brachycephalic dogs– such as Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Boston Terriers- have large, exposed eyes and shallow sockets that make proper tear coverage difficult. Their eyelids may not close completely, leading to constant evaporation and exposure keratitis.

Flat-faced cats like Persians and Himalayans face similar risks due to compressed facial structures and narrow tear ducts that interfere with tear flow.

The Role of Cherry Eye and Surgical History

Improper treatment of cherry eye– prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid- is a common cause of chronic dry eye. The third eyelid gland contributes up to 30–40% of a dog’s total tear production, and surgical removal rather than replacement severely reduces tear quantity. Pets that have had cherry eye removed early in life often develop KCS later due to permanent glandular loss.

At Veterinary Vision Center, we stress gland-preserving techniques whenever possible and offer surgical correction that repositions rather than excises the gland, maintaining tear function and long-term ocular health.

Immune-Mediated and Systemic Disease

In many cases, dry eye is an autoimmune disorder- the pet’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tear glands. This immune-mediated KCS is chronic and progressive, requiring lifelong therapy to suppress inflammation and stimulate tear production.

Endocrine diseases such as hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, and diabetes can also alter tear composition and reduce lubrication. Medications like sulfa drugs or certain anesthetics may temporarily or permanently suppress tear output.

Age, trauma, and chronic eye infections can further compromise gland function over time.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Dry Eye

Because dry eye often develops gradually, early signs may go unnoticed until irritation becomes painful. Watch for:

  • Persistent redness or bloodshot appearance
  • Thick, sticky yellow or green discharge that crusts around the lids
  • Squinting, excessive blinking, or pawing at the eyes
  • Dull or cloudy corneas instead of a bright, moist sheen
  • Recurrent eye infections or a “gooey” film over the eyes

Dogs may rub their faces against furniture or carpets, while cats may become withdrawn or blink excessively.

When untreated, the lack of lubrication can cause corneal ulcers– open sores on the corneal surface that are extremely painful and can deepen rapidly. If ulceration extends through the cornea, rupture and permanent vision loss may occur.

How Dry Eye Is Diagnosed

Diagnosing KCS requires precision testing to identify both tear quantity and quality.

At Veterinary Vision Center, our ophthalmologist uses multiple diagnostic tools to create a complete picture of your pet’s ocular health:

  • Schirmer Tear Test (STT): Measures the amount of tear production over 60 seconds using absorbent strips placed under the lower eyelid. Values below 15mm are considered low in dogs, though ideal ranges vary by species and breed.
  • Fluorescein Staining: Detects corneal ulceration or surface irregularities caused by dryness or trauma.
  • Tear Film Break-Up Time: Evaluates how quickly tears evaporate from the cornea, revealing tear quality deficiencies.
  • Ocular Surface Cytology: Examines conjunctival cells for inflammatory or immune-mediated changes.
  • Bacterial Culture and Sensitivity: Identifies secondary infections that complicate healing.

These tests, along with a thorough examination of the eyelids, lashes, and third eyelid, guide personalized treatment planning. For pets with other ocular conditions, additional imaging or pressure testing may be performed to rule out glaucoma or uveitis.

Treatment and Long-Term Management

Medical Management

Most pets respond well to medical therapy when it begins early and remains consistent. Treatment typically includes:

  • Artificial tear replacements – Lubricating gels or drops supplement natural tears and soothe irritation. Frequency depends on the severity of dryness.
  • Tear-stimulating medications – Immunomodulating drugs like cyclosporine or tacrolimus reduce inflammation and stimulate tear gland recovery.
  • Antibiotic or anti-inflammatory drops – Used when infection or conjunctivitis develops secondary to dry eye.

Consistency is critical. These medications may take several weeks to achieve full effect, and missing doses can allow inflammation to return. Once tear function stabilizes, dosing may be reduced, but lifelong management is often required.

Because many cases are autoimmune in origin, our ophthalmologist tailors treatment to each pet’s immune response, adjusting as needed during follow-up exams.

Surgical Options for Severe Dry Eye

When medical therapy is no longer effective, surgical intervention may be the best way to preserve comfort and prevent further corneal injury.

Parotid duct transposition– a specialized procedure offered at Veterinary Vision Center– reroutes the parotid salivary duct to the eye, using saliva as an alternative source of lubrication. While this procedure requires careful management post-operatively, it can dramatically improve comfort in severe or irreversible cases of tear gland loss.

In some cases, eyelid reconstruction (blepharoplasty) is recommended to improve eyelid closure or reduce exposure in pets with shallow eye sockets. Correcting these anatomical factors helps tears remain on the corneal surface longer.

Preventing Complications and Promoting Eye Health

Home Care and Monitoring

Managing dry eye successfully depends on a consistent home care routine. Follow your ophthalmologist’s directions for applying drops or ointments, and monitor for any changes in discharge color, blinking rate, or squinting.

Here are some care tips to make treatment easier and more effective:

  • Keep hands clean before applying medications.
  • Gently clean the eyelids with a warm, damp cloth before applying new drops.
  • Keep the medication at room temperature for comfort.
  • Offer praise or treats after treatment to create a positive experience.

If you’re unsure about your technique, our ophthalmology team can demonstrate how to administer eye medications properly.

Environmental management also matters. Avoid dusty, windy, or smoky areas. For outdoor activities, protective eyewear such as Doggles can prevent further irritation and protect fragile corneas.

The Importance of Regular Rechecks

Because tear production and ocular surface health fluctuate, regular monitoring is essential. Follow-up exams allow us to measure tear response, detect early ulceration, and adjust medications before complications occur.

At Veterinary Vision Center, ongoing care means more than simply controlling symptoms- it’s about preserving long-term vision and ensuring your pet’s quality of life. Through advanced diagnostics, customized treatment, and compassionate guidance, we help families manage chronic eye conditions with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dry Eye

Can dry eye go away on its own?
 In most pets, dry eye is a lifelong condition requiring consistent therapy. Some cases caused by temporary medication use or mild trauma may improve, but immune-mediated KCS requires ongoing treatment.

Why can’t I just use human eye drops?
 Human artificial tears often contain preservatives or ingredients unsafe for pets. Veterinary-specific lubricants are formulated for the correct tear film pH and osmolarity.

What if my pet doesn’t respond to medication?
 Non-responders may have complete gland atrophy, previous cherry eye removal, or other systemic issues. In these cases, surgical solutions or advanced therapy options can be explored.

Can untreated dry eye cause blindness?
 Yes. Chronic dryness can lead to deep corneal ulcers, pigmentation, or scarring that permanently blocks vision. Early treatment prevents this progression.

Expert Eye Care Starts at Veterinary Vision Center

Dry eye syndrome is painful, progressive, and often underestimated- but with the right care, pets can stay comfortable and maintain vision for years.

At Veterinary Vision Center, our team combines advanced diagnostic tools with a compassionate, family-focused approach. We tailor each plan to your pet’s unique needs, breed, and health history, offering lifelong guidance and gold-standard care.

If your pet has persistent redness, discharge, or squinting, schedule a consultation today. You can request an appointment online or contact us to speak with our staff.

We’re proud to provide world-class ophthalmic care in Shreveport- because every pet deserves to see the world clearly and comfortably.