Glaucoma is an eye disease that not only affects people but also their pets. It can be very painful for them, sometimes even leading to blindness. Glaucoma occurs when the pressure inside the eye increases, when the clear fluid inside the eye (called the aqueous humor) is unable to drain. This occurs more frequently in dogs than cats, with common breeds including Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, Basset Hounds, Akitas, Chow Chows, Samoyeds and Shar Peis.
Glaucoma is commonly more painful in animals than in people because the pressure inside the eye can increase to levels much higher than what typically occurs in humans, sometimes causing the eye to stretch and enlarge. Early signs of this condition include a bloodshot eye, cloudiness, a dilated pupil or squinting. Veterinarians can detect Glaucoma by measuring the eye’s pressure with a tonometer. Various medications are available for treatment if glaucoma is found, or sometimes removal of the eye is needed.
