07/05/2025
The most common eye injuries in dogs, cats and horses during the summer months include
1) corneal ulcers, 2) conjunctivitis, and 3) ocular foreign bodies. While irrigating the eye with a sterile saline solution is generally safe and may help to rinse out debris, especially after playing at the beach, it is important that these eye injuries are evaluated by a veterinarian to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment, especially if it persists beyond 24 hours.
Corneal ulcers can result from scratches, infections, foreign objects like dirt or grass seeds, or even self-trauma due to scratching.
Conjunctivitis can be caused by allergies, infections, bug bites, hypersensitivities, and local irritants.
In California, the most common ocular foreign body is the foxtail. The sooner these are identified and removed the better, as they can migrate around the eye or break off into smaller pieces that are harder to find!
Is your pet experiencing an eye emergency? Contact us any time! Call or text (831)655-4939, or visit VetEyeClinicMonterey.com
