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Glaucoma in Dogs: Recognizing Symptoms and Choosing the Right Treatment
Introduction
Glaucoma in dogs is a progressive disease that can lead to irreversible blindness. For veterinarians and owners, knowing the early symptoms of glaucoma in dogs and applying the right glaucoma in dogs treatment strategies are critical to preserving comfort and vision. This article provides a comprehensive medical overview and a clinical case study to illustrate how to treat glaucoma in dogs effectively.
What Is Glaucoma in Dogs?
Glaucoma occurs when the outflow of aqueous humor is restricted, causing intraocular pressure (IOP) to rise. Normal canine IOP ranges from 10–25 mmHg. Persistent increases above this level damage the optic nerve and retina.
- Primary glaucoma: Genetic, structural defect of the drainage angle.
- Secondary glaucoma: Caused by trauma, uveitis, cataract, or tumors.
Symptoms of Glaucoma in Dogs
- Red, irritated eye
- Cloudy cornea (bluish appearance)
- Dilated non-responsive pupil
- Sudden blindness
- Head pressing or pawing due to pain
- Lethargy, appetite loss, or withdrawal behavior
Recognizing these symptoms of glaucoma in dogs quickly can change the outcome.
Diagnostic Tools
- Tonometry for IOP measurement
- Ophthalmoscopy for optic nerve changes
- Gonioscopy for drainage angle evaluation
- Ultrasound if corneal opacity blocks view
Glaucoma in Dogs Treatment
Medical Options
- Topical carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (dorzolamide)
- Beta-blockers (timolol)
- Prostaglandin analogs (latanoprost)
- IV mannitol in acute crises
Surgical Options
- Cyclophotocoagulation with laser
- Drainage implants
- Enucleation for blind, painful eyes
Case Study: Primary Glaucoma in a Shiba Inu
Patient: 8-year-old male Shiba Inu
Presentation: Sudden onset of corneal cloudiness and vision loss in right eye
Findings:
- IOP: 60 mmHg OD, 20 mmHg OS
- Fixed dilated pupil, corneal edema
Treatment: - Emergency mannitol infusion
- Topical latanoprost and dorzolamide
- Referral for cyclophotocoagulation
- Prophylactic drops in the left eye
Outcome:
Right eye permanently blind but pain controlled. Left eye remained visual for 18 months under preventive management.
Prognosis
Glaucoma is progressive. Even with aggressive therapy, long-term vision is rarely preserved. The primary goal is maintaining comfort and delaying bilateral blindness.
Conclusion
Glaucoma in dogs requires urgent recognition and rapid intervention. Identifying symptoms of glaucoma in dogs, applying medical therapy, and choosing surgical solutions are key steps in how to treat glaucoma in dogs effectively.