Ocular Surface Conditions in Pets
The ocular surface, including the cornea, conjunctiva, and tear film, plays a critical role in protecting your pet’s eyes and maintaining comfort and clear vision. When any part of this delicate system becomes compromised, pets may experience redness, squinting, discharge, cloudiness, or signs of pain. At the Veterinary Eye Center, our board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists perform comprehensive examinations and advanced diagnostic testing to identify the underlying cause and develop a targeted treatment plan. From medical management to specialized surgical procedures, our goal is to restore comfort, protect vision, and support long-term ocular health for every patient we treat.
.avif)
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS / Dry Eye)
KCS, also known as “dry eye”, occurs when the tear glands fail to produce an adequate tear film. This leads to chronic eye irritation, inflammation, mucous discharge and increases the risk of corneal ulcers or infections.
At VEC NYC, we take a multimodal approach to managing dry eye, which may include:
- Tear-stimulating medications (e.g., cyclosporine or tacrolimus)
- Artificial tear supplements for lubrication
- Slow-release immunomodulatory implants for long-term control
- Parotid duct transposition surgery in severe or unresponsive cases
- Adjunctive therapies such as eyelid cleaning protocols and compresses to support the health of the tear glands
Early diagnosis and personalized treatment can make a huge difference in a patient's quality of life.
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, or inflammation of the conjunctiva (the pink tissue lining the eyelids), is a common eye issue in pets and can result from:
- Allergies
- Viral or bacterial infections
- Immune-mediated diseases
- Irritants or anatomical abnormalities
Symptoms may include redness, squinting, discharge, or itching. Our ophthalmologists perform a complete exam to identify the root cause and tailor treatment, which may include:
- Topical antivirals or antibiotics
- Anti-inflammatory and/or antihistamine (allergy) drops
- Management of systemic conditions contributing to ocular irritation
Episcleritis
Episcleritis is an immune-mediated inflammatory condition affecting one of the outer layers of the eye. It can cause:
- Localized redness and thickening
- Swelling and irritation
- Discomfort or eye sensitivity
Management typically includes:
- Topical and/or oral anti-inflammatory medications
- Treatment to help prevent recurrence or progression
With the right treatment, most pets respond well and regain comfort quickly.
Feline Herpesvirus Infection
Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) is a common viral infection in cats, especially those from outdoor environments, shelters, or multi-cat households. It is a major cause of:
- Conjunctivitis
- Corneal ulcers
- Squinting and ocular discharge
Because herpesvirus infections can remain latent and reemerge during stress, treatment may require a long-term management strategy, including:
- Environmental stress reduction
- Topical or oral antiviral medications (like cidofovir or famciclovir)
- Treatment of related conditions such as corneal ulcers
- Tear film support to protect the cornea during flare-ups
Early management helps reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups, preserving comfort and vision.