Description
Eyes can be injured through any type of stike, hit, or impact. Sometimes they are injured by contact with a foreign body, or during a fight with another animal.
Urgency
Danger
Course
Due to trauma, the eyeball is invariably reddened, especially the white of the eye, and watering occurs. The eyeball may also swell up and protrude from the socket. If bleeding occurs inside the eye, the cornea will show a dark red haze at the back, which may impair vision.
Cause
Common sources of trauma to the eye are car accidents in which the head is hit. Small breeds may become injured and suffer trauma in fights with other dogs. Also, playing or fighting with cats is another common cause of trauma to the eye, as dog's may receive a feline scratch.
Therapy
Therapy is based upon the nature of the trauma. Small and uncomplicated injuries usually heal if the eye is rested and treated with supportive medication. Severe damage to the eyeball may require surgery in order to heal properly.
Emergency measures
An animal with a severe eye injury should be brought to the nearest veterinary clinic immediately. The sooner treatment starts, the better the chance of a full recovery. To prevent further injury, the animal should be calmed, especially if the eye is swollen.