Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a disease characterized by high elevation of pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure), which results in damage to the eye and eventually blindness. Glaucoma is a frequent cause of blindness in our pets.
How glaucoma develops
The eye shape is maintained by the intraocular fluid (aqueous humor), which is continuously produced and drained from the eye. Similar to an open faucet and drain, the system is well maintained as long as the drain system is functional. If the drain system of the eye gets plugged, intraocular fluid starts to accumulate, resulting in a rise in pressure. This build-up of high pressure in the eye can damage many eye structures in a very short period of time.
Medical and surgical therapies for glaucoma can reduce production of the intraocular fluid (“closing the faucet”) and increase the flow of fluid out of the eye (“unplugging the drain”) with a goal of maintaining intraocular pressure of 15–20 mmHg.
Glaucoma in dogs
Glaucoma most frequently is a hereditary disease affecting middle-aged dogs. Detailed glaucoma screening is recommended for all breeding dogs, and also for pets with a history of the disease in their family.
Glaucoma in cats
Glaucoma is a frequent cause of blindness in cats, and most frequently develops secondary to chronic inflammation inside the eye (secondary glaucoma). Some cat breeds can develop glaucoma as a hereditary disease (primary glaucoma).
Notice a red or cloudy eye?
Don't wait — glaucoma is time-sensitive. Contact us right away for an urgent evaluation.