Conjunctivitis causing eye discharge is one of the most common eye problems in dogs, ranging from mild irritation to conditions threatening vision and welfare.
Ocular discharge conditions range from mild inconvenience to severely painful conditions affecting vision. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca causes chronic pain from corneal desiccation - the equivalent of having severe chronic dry eye in humans, which sufferers describe as a constant burning, foreign body sensation. Dogs with KCS blink excessively, squint, and show obvious discomfort. Cyclosporine treatment dramatically improves tear production in most cases, providing sustained relief from what was previously a progressive, vision-threatening condition requiring lifelong management. Infectious conjunctivitis causes both discomfort and potential spread to the cornea creating more serious ulcerative disease. Early recognition and treatment prevents progression to more severe welfare impacts.