Blepharitis in dogs is an inflammation of the eyelids. It features some dullness and eye irritation
along with redness and inflammation of the eyelids or swelling and a thick crust of discharge
around the eyes. Your dog’s blepharitis ought to be noticed and treated for other related
diseases and see your pet comfortable and happy.
This guide will talk about the disease, recognized as blepharitis in dogs, including etymology,
symptoms, methods of its treatment, and some protective measures.
What is Blepharitis in Dogs?
If your dog has swelling in the eyelids it means that your dog has Blepharitis which results in
soreness of the dog. The condition can be caused by infections or allergies or even autoimmune
diseases and conditions.
Hence, the kind and cause of dog’s blepharitis must be explained and discussed to help the
specific pet owner diligently treat this disease in dog
Causes of Blepharitis in Dogs
There are some common causes of blepharitis that we discuss below:
Parasites
Skin itching is accompanied by inflammation of the eyelid mite such as Demodex or Sarcoptes;
Nevertheless, they bring about scratching on the skin thus creating a conducive environment for
secondary infection.
Infections
The main causes of inflammation of the eyelids are infection by bacteria, fungi, viruses, or any
form of infection at all. The bacterial causes for septicemia are Staphylococcus and
Streptococcus, while the fungal organisms are Malassezia and Candida.
Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune disease occurs when a dog’s immune response to a specific part of the body is
therefore a bad thing. Some of the effects that could be caused by this type of blepharitis
include pemphigus foliaceus.
Trauma or Irritation
Wiping something on the eyes or eye lid and basal conjunctivization, crying or rubbing of the
eyes or the presence of dust or any some thing like that is an additional cause of blepharitis.
Allergies
Dust or pollen or some specific types of food items act as allergens that can lead to the
development of blepharitis.Certain allergies if not treated lead to chronic inflammation and
irritation of those of areas of the human body.
Symptoms of Blepharitis in Dogs
Some common symptoms of this disease listed below:
● Loss of eyelashes
● Itching or rubbing at the eyes
● Squinting or sensitivity to light
● Crusty discharge around the eyes
● Redness and swelling of the eyelids
These symptoms can vary in severity and may occur in one or both eyes. Early detection and
treatment are crucial to prevent the condition from worsening.
How to Diagnose and Treat Blepharitis in Dogs
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of the blepharitis is usually clinical and this requires clinical signs together with an eye
examination by the veterinarian.
Sometimes, other tests like skin scraping, cultures, as well as serological tests, may be required
to identify more of the cause of inflammation.
It is equally important to have a diagnostic instrument to aid in diagnostics and to fashion the
right approach to treatment.
Treatment
● Autoimmune Treatment
In the treatment of autoimmune blepharitis, it is also necessary to utilize immunosuppressive
agents to prevent an extensive immune reaction in a dog’s body. Close observation and regular
attention, along with a change in the schedule of treatment, may also be required at multiple
points in time.
● Hygiene
The region must be kept hygiene. Cleaning the eyes and the eyelids softly with a solution as
prescribed by the vet could also prevent the deposits and discharge from forming. It inhibits the
onset of secondary infections and promotes healing.
● Allergies
If the cause of the disease is allergies, then you should try to find out which allergens cause it
and try to avoid them. Your veterinarian may administer antihistamines or some other
medications to treat allergy symptoms.
● Medication
Antibiotics or antifungal medicines are usually topical or oral for blephadogs if there is an
infection. Anti-inflammatory medicines like corticosteroids also reduce swelling and can
minimize discomfort.
It’s recommended that you schedule an online vet appointment and seek advice from a
qualified professional by using an online platform such as Search A Vet to address the dog’s
blepharitis.
If you want to receive quick and qualified consultation from the vets, then you only have to use
applications that will connect you with the vets.
Preventing Blepharitis in Dogs
Although it is always possible to prevent blepharitis, there are certain steps that you can take to
minimize its risks.
● Make sure that your dog’s face and eyes are clean to avoid having parts clogged with
substances.
● If this is the case, lock off all areas which your dog can access to avoid harassing him
with allergens.
● There are always signs that something is wrong, and this means that regular check-ups
are very important.
Visual Guide: Pictures of Blepharitis in Dogs
It will be easier for pet owners to relate if their dogs have blepharitis; they will see real pictures.
Some pictures of dogs are shown below suffering from blepharitis to give a glimpse of the
disease.
