Cavalier Talk

Dry Eye: Occurs when a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (dog) does not produce enough tears to keep the eye properly moistened, often associated with an irritation or foreign object. Dry eye can cause chronically dry, burning eyes, and scarring and painful ulceration of the cornea which may lead to decreased vision. The disorder requires frequent medication every day and can be a life long condition. Puppies born with this condition should be placed in a pet home and never bred. Symptoms include chronic redness of the eye, thick yellow-green discharge, especially in the morning, and the development of a film over the cornea. Treatment involves increasing tear production, applying artificial tears, and reducing any bacterial infections along with decreasing inflammation and scarring of the cornea. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s eyes must be kept clean and free of discharge. The patient may be treated initially with a topical antibiotic or anti-inflammatory. Surgery is rarely a successful option.

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