My Pet Folio

Dry eye, or KCS, is a condition where the tear glands don't produce enough tears to keep the eye properly lubricated. This leads to chronic inflammation, discomfort, and potential damage to the cornea over time.

Signs:

Thick, sticky, or ropey mucus discharge
Redness of the eye and conjunctiva
Dull or cloudy appearance to the eyes
Squinting or blinking excessively
Pawing at the eyes
Recurrent conjunctivitis
Pigmentation (darkening) of the cornea in chronic cases

Common Causes:

Immune-mediated destruction of tear glands
Side effect of certain medications
Previous cherry eye surgery with gland removal
Trauma to tear-producing glands
Nerve damage affecting tear production
Breed predisposition (Cocker Spaniels, West Highland White Terriers, Bulldogs)

First Aid and Home Care:

Gently clean discharge with warm water on a soft cloth.
Apply veterinarian-recommended eye lubricants.
Avoid dusty or smoky environments.
Follow your veterinarian's treatment plan consistently.
Never use human eye drops unless specifically approved by your vet.

Important Warning

Dry eye is usually a lifelong condition requiring ongoing treatment. Without proper management, it can lead to painful corneal ulcers, scarring, and vision loss. If your pet shows symptoms of dry eye, make an appointment with your veterinarian.