Shih Tzu are a popular breed of dog, but they are also prone to a number of eye problems. In this article, we will discuss 12 common Shih Tzu eye problems, their symptoms, and prognosis.
Common Shih Tzu Eye Problems
Shih Tzus are a popular breed of dog, but they are also prone to a number of eye problems. Some of the most common Shih Tzu eye problems include cataracts, glaucoma, and corneal ulcers.
Cataracts cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy, and can eventually lead to blindness. Glaucoma is another common eye problem in Shih Tzus. Cataracts are a common problem in older dogs, and Shih Tzus are no exception. Glaucoma is a condition in which the pressure inside the eye becomes too high, and can eventually lead to blindness.
Corneal ulcers can be very painful, and can eventually lead to blindness if not treated. Corneal ulcers are a common problem in Shih Tzus, and can be caused by a number of things, including allergies, infections, and trauma.
Early diagnosis and treatment is important for the best possible outcome. If you think your Shih Tzu may be suffering from any of these eye problems, it is important to take them to the vet for an examination.
Eye Infections
Conjunctivitis can be caused by bacteria, viruses, allergies, or irritants. The most common type of eye infection is conjunctivitis, which is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid. Eye infections are a common problem in Shih Tzus.
If left untreated, conjunctivitis can lead to more serious problems such as ulcers or scarring of the cornea. Symptoms of conjunctivitis include redness, swelling, discharge, and itchiness.
Treatment for conjunctivitis usually involves antibiotics or anti-inflammatory eye drops. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Be sure to clean your dog’s eyes regularly with a gentle cleanser and avoid letting him rub his eyes with his paws. Prevention of eye infections is the best way to keep your Shih Tzu healthy. If your dog does develop conjunctivitis, be sure to take him to the vet for treatment as soon as possible.
Dryness & Irritation
If you notice any of the following symptoms, be sure to take your dog to the vet for an evaluation: If you notice your Shih Tzu’s eyes are dry or irritated, it could be a sign of a more serious problem. If left untreated, dryness and irritation can lead to ulcers or other damage to the eye.
-Red, irritated eyes
-Excessive tearing
-Squinting
– pawing at the eyes
With early diagnosis and treatment, most eye problems can be resolved without serious consequences. If you think your dog may have dry eye or another eye condition, don’t hesitate to take them to the vet.
Corneal Ulcers and Abrasions
Treatment for a corneal ulcer may include antibiotics, pain medication, and rest. Both conditions can be painful and can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. Symptoms of a corneal ulcer include redness, pain, tearing, and squinting. A corneal abrasion will usually heal on its own within a few days. Corneal ulcers and abrasions are common eye problems in Shih Tzus. A corneal abrasion is a scrape or scratch on the surface of the eye.
Glaucoma
If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to blindness. Glaucoma can be caused by a number of things, including genetics, injury, and certain medications. Symptoms of glaucoma include pain, redness, and decreased vision. Glaucoma is one of the most common eye problems in Shih Tzus. In some cases, surgery may also be necessary. Treatment for glaucoma typically involves medications to lower the pressure inside the eye. It is a condition in which the pressure inside the eye becomes too high, and can damage the optic nerve.
Entropion or Ectropion
This can lead to irritation, redness, and tearing. Treatment for entropion and ectropion usually involves surgery to correct the position of the eyelid. Both of these problems can be caused by genetics, injury, or disease. Entropion is when the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the eye. Entropion and ectropion are two common eye problems in Shih Tzus. Ectropion is when the eyelid rolls outward, away from the eye. This can also lead to irritation, redness, and tearing.
Trichiasis
Treatment for trichiasis includes the use of artificial tears, ointments, and surgery. Trichiasis is a condition that results in the inversion of the eyelashes. This can happen due to trauma, infection, or inflammation. In severe cases, it can lead to ulceration of the cornea. Trichiasis can cause irritation, pain, and inflammation of the eye. It can also be a congenital condition.
Distichiasis
One of the most common eye problems in Shih Tzus is distichiasis. These extra eyelashes can rub against the eye and cause irritation, inflammation, and corneal ulcers. This condition occurs when there is an abnormal growth of eyelashes on the inner surface of the eyelid.
In some cases, the condition may require lifelong treatment. Treatment for distichiasis usually involves removing the extra eyelashes with surgery or electrolysis. Distichiasis is usually a genetic condition, but it can also be caused by trauma to the eye.
If you notice your Shih Tzu rubbing its eyes or squinting, be sure to take it to the vet for an evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment of distichiasis can help prevent serious eye problems down the road.
Cherry Eye
Cherry eye is a common eye condition in Shih Tzus, and it occurs when the tear gland prolapses, or pops out, from its normal position in the eye. The Shih Tzu is a small, toy-sized dog breed that is known for its long, flowing coat and its large, round eyes. The Shih Tzu’s eyes are one of its most distinctive features, but they can also be one of the breed’s biggest health concerns.
Cherry eye can be a very painful condition for dogs, and it can also lead to more serious problems, such as blindness, if left untreated. However, cherry eye can be a recurrent condition, so owners need to be vigilant about monitoring their dog’s eyes for any signs of trouble. Treatment for cherry eye typically involves surgery to reposition the tear gland, and most dogs make a full recovery after treatment.
Proptosis
It can be caused by a number of things, including trauma, tumors, or congenital defects. Proptosis can be a very serious condition, as it can lead to blindness if not treated promptly. Treatment for proptosis typically involves surgery to correct the underlying cause. Proptosis is a condition in which the eye bulges out from the socket.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
PRA is a progressive disease, which means that it gets worse over time. Symptoms of PRA include night blindness and difficulty seeing in low light. There is no cure for PRA, but treatment can help to slow the progression of the disease. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is an eye disease that affects the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye. PRA is a degenerative disease, which means that it gets worse over time.
Retinal Detachment
Symptoms of retinal detachment include sudden onset of vision loss, floaters, and flashes of light. One of the more serious eye problems that can affect Shih Tzus is retinal detachment. Treatment for retinal detachment typically involves surgery to reattach the retina to the rest of the eye. If left untreated, retinal detachment can lead to blindness. This occurs when the retina, the layer of tissue at the back of the eye that is responsible for vision, becomes separated from the rest of the eye. Retinal detachment can be caused by a variety of things, including trauma to the eye, diabetes, and certain eye diseases.
Pigmentary Keratitis
Pigmentary keratitis is one of the most common eye problems in Shih Tzus. The condition is not painful, but it can cause the dog to have difficulty seeing. It is a condition in which the black pigment in the eye slowly breaks down, causing the iris to become lighter in color. There is no cure for pigmentary keratitis, but it can be managed with medication and regular eye exams. If the condition is left untreated, it can eventually lead to blindness.
How Do I Know If My Shih Tzu Has an Eye Infection?
Shih Tzus are susceptible to a number of eye problems, including infections. If you think your Shih Tzu may have an eye infection, watch for these common symptoms:
-Eye discharge: This can be clear, white, yellow, or greenish in color. It may be watery or thick, and it may crust over the dog’s eyelids.
-Redness: The whites of the eyes may look red or bloodshot.
-Squinting: Your dog may squint or keep his eyes closed more than usual.
-Sensitivity to light: Your dog may seem uncomfortable in bright light.
If you notice any of these symptoms, take your dog to the vet for an evaluation. Eye infections can be serious, so it’s important to get them treated promptly.
Is It Common for Shih Tzus to Lose an Eye?
While it’s not common for Shih Tzus to lose an eye, it is something that can happen. There are a number of eye problems that can affect Shih Tzus, and some of them can lead to the loss of an eye. If you notice any changes in your Shih Tzu’s eyes, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination.
At What Age Do Shih Tzus Commonly Go Blind?
Shih Tzus are a popular breed of dog, but they are also prone to a number of eye problems. One of the most common is blindness.
While blindness can occur at any age, it is most common in older dogs. Shih Tzus typically go blind due to cataracts, glaucoma, or other age-related conditions.
If your Shih Tzu is going blind, talk to your vet about the best course of action. There is no cure for blindness, but there are ways to make your dog more comfortable.
What Can I Use to Clean My Shih Tzus Eyes?
The long hair can irritate the eyes and cause a number of different issues, including conjunctivitis, dry eye, and corneal ulcers. While this may be the dog’s most distinguishing feature, it is also the source of a lot of eye problems. Shih Tzus are a breed of dog that is known for their long, flowing coats.
One of the most popular is the Eye Envy kit, which includes a solution and pads that can be used to clean the eyes. Another option is to use a warm, wet cloth to gently wipe the eyes. There are a number of different products on the market that are designed to clean a dog’s eyes.
The vet can determine if there is an underlying problem that needs to be addressed. If you are concerned about your Shih Tzu’s eye health, it is important to take them to the vet for a check-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the most common Shih Tzu eye problems?
The most common Shih Tzu eye problems are: cherry eye, dry eye, entropion, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy.
2. What are the symptoms of cherry eye?
Cherry eye is a condition where the gland that produces tears becomes prolapsed and visible. It can cause the eye to appear red and irritated.
3. What is the prognosis for cherry eye?
Cherry eye can usually be treated surgically by repositioning the gland. However, if left untreated, it can lead to more serious problems such as glaucoma or blindness.
4. What are the symptoms of dry eye?
Dry eye is a condition where the eye does not produce enough tears. This can cause the eye to become irritated and red.
5. What is the prognosis for dry eye?
Dry eye can usually be treated with artificial tears or eye drops. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
6. What are the symptoms of entropion?
Entropion is a condition where the eyelid turns inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the eye. This can cause irritation, redness, and watering of the eye.
7. What is the prognosis for entropion?
Entropion can usually be treated surgically by correcting the position of the eyelid. However, if left untreated, it can lead to more serious problems such as ulcers or scarring of the cornea.
8. What are the symptoms of glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a condition where the pressure in the eye becomes too high. This can damage the optic nerve and lead to blindness.
9. What is the prognosis for glaucoma?
Glaucoma can be treated with medication, surgery, or a combination of both. However, if left untreated, it will lead to blindness.
10. What are the symptoms of progressive retinal atrophy?
Progressive retinal atrophy is a degenerative disease that leads to the loss of vision. Early symptoms include night blindness and difficulty seeing in low light. As the disease progresses, vision will continue to deteriorate until complete blindness occurs.
Final thoughts
Shih Tzu eye problems are common, but there are many things that can be done to help. If you think your Shih Tzu may have an eye problem, it is important to take them to the vet for an examination. With proper treatment, many Shih Tzu eye problems can be resolved.