How to keep your pet’s eyes healthy

Getting regular checkups at your primary vet is on many people’s radars. However, visiting a veterinary ophthalmologist is often overlooked, yet it’s a necessary part of taking care of your pet. If your primary vet is referring you to a veterinary ophthalmologist, it can greatly improve your pet’s quality of life. At Visionary Vet in Southwest Florida, we are always here to help.

We recommend a few primary ways to help keep eye concerns to a minimum.

Routine checkups at the vet

It’s important to get your pet’s eyes checked at least once a year. If your pet is older, then even more often is smart. You can get a general eye examination at your primary vet. If there is a concern that needs to be addressed by a specialist, your vet will refer you to a vet ophthalmologist practice like ours.

At-home upkeep

This one is critical for your pet’s eye care. Below are a few ways you can help to keep your pet’s eyes healthy. Don’t wait to see a veterinary ophthalmologist if you notice something unusual.. Eye problems are much easier to treat early on.

Clean around the eyes regularly
Come in for an evaluation if you notice discharge
Oral supplements like Ocu-GLO may help
Minimize stress around the house for cats

Managing other health conditions

Did you know conditions like diabetes can affect the eyes long-term? Yep, that’s why treating your pet like you would treat your child is important. Here are a few conditions we can see affect the eyes:

Diabetes can lead to cataracts and dry eye disease
Systemic allergies can lead to excessive tearing and conjunctivitis
Hypothyroid disease can lead to corneal deposits

Remember that nobody is perfect, and even though your pet can’t talk, we can guarantee they love and appreciate you for taking care of them.

If you notice anything unusual about your pet’s eyes, come in to Visionary Vet in Southwest Florida at either of our Fort Myers or Port Charlotte locations.

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