Itchy eyes are common in Southwest Florida pets. Environmental allergies are often the cause. Pollen, dust, and molds are found in high numbers in our area. Just like people, our pets can show allergy symptoms such as itchy skin and red, itchy eyes https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/eyes/dog-eye-allergies-symptoms-and-treatment. Additionally, an owner may note loss of hair around the eyes, eyelid and/or conjunctival swelling, and ocular discharge. Though allergies are more commonly diagnosed in our dog patients, we certainly can also see allergy problems with cats.
Allergic reactions can occur in one or both eyes. They typically cause increased ocular redness and clear to opaque discharge from the eyes. While these changes are benign, persistent allergies can lead to decreased tear production (dry eye) or corneal changes.
Avoidance of the allergy-causing agent is ideal, but not always possible or practical. Therefore, therapy to help decrease the level of allergy based inflammation is prescribed. Allergy medications may include topical antihistamine eye drops (we often use the over the counter antihistamine eye drop Zaditor), topical steroid eye drops, and topical immunomodulating eye medications such as Optimmune. Some patients will require intermittent or long term therapy to control allergic conjunctivitis. Additional systemic therapy for allergy control, such as the use of antihistamines, steroids, Atopica, Apoquel, Cytopoint, or hyposensitization injections may be initiated by your veterinarian or veterinary dermatologist, especially if your pet shows systemic signs of allergies.
Treatment of symptoms long term, or on a maintenance or intermittent schedule will likely be required. We work closely with your veterinarian and veterinary dermatologist to ensure that all is being done to keep your pet healthy and comfortable.
Itchy eyes are common in southwest Florida pets. If you think your pet has itchy eyes and environmental allergies, call us to schedule an appointment.
