Eye Emergencies in Pets | VetCheck Pet Urgent Care Center
Your pet’s eyes are more than just windows to their soul—they’re also incredibly delicate organs that can rapidly deteriorate when something goes wrong. If you’ve noticed your dog or cat suddenly squinting, their eyes turning red, or a dramatic change in vision, it may not be something that can wait. At VetCheck Carmel, we see firsthand how quickly eye conditions in pets can escalate, and we urge pet owners to treat these signs as potential emergencies.
Redness in the eye is one of the most common and most overlooked symptoms. It may stem from minor irritation, but it can also point to serious problems like glaucoma, uveitis, or infection. These conditions cause increased pressure or inflammation inside the eye, which can lead to irreversible damage or even blindness if not addressed promptly. Redness that appears suddenly, especially if it’s accompanied by swelling, discharge, or behavioral changes, should be evaluated by a veterinarian right away.
Squinting is another red flag. Pets squint to relieve discomfort or pain, and it’s a clear signal that something isn’t right. This behavior is often associated with corneal ulcers, foreign objects in the eye, or trauma. Even a small scratch on the eye surface can quickly become infected and worsen without proper treatment. If your pet is squinting persistently, avoiding light, or keeping one eye closed, it’s time for an urgent examination.
Perhaps the most alarming symptom is sudden blindness. Pets that bump into furniture, become disoriented, or hesitate to walk in familiar areas may be experiencing acute vision loss. Causes can range from retinal detachment and optic nerve disease to severe infections or untreated high blood pressure. Time is critical when dealing with sudden blindness—waiting too long can mean missing the window for effective treatment.
Many eye emergencies come on fast, but they can also develop silently. Pets are experts at hiding discomfort, and you might not realize something is wrong until it’s advanced. Discharge from the eye, cloudiness, a visible third eyelid, or behavioral changes like increased head-shaking or face-rubbing are subtle hints that your pet is in trouble. These signs may not seem urgent at first, but they can quickly spiral into something more severe without veterinary care.
At VetCheck Carmel, we operate with the understanding that every moment counts in an emergency. Our urgent care team is available 7 days a week—including evenings and weekends—to provide rapid diagnosis and treatment for eye conditions and other sudden health concerns. Whether it’s a suspected eye infection, trauma, or unexplained vision changes, we’re equipped with the tools and expertise to preserve your pet’s sight and alleviate their pain.
It’s tempting to wait and see if symptoms improve, especially outside of regular clinic hours. But when it comes to eye issues, that wait can cost your pet their vision—or their eye altogether. Fast intervention can be the difference between a minor procedure and a life-altering complication.
If your pet shows any signs of eye discomfort, don’t delay. Contact VetCheck Fishers immediately. Your pet’s vision—and their comfort—may depend on how quickly you act.
Notice red eyes, squinting, or sudden blindness in your pet? Don’t wait. Visit VetCheck Carmel at 1374 South Rangeline Road,Carmel, IN 46032 or call (317) 516-0707 for immediate help. We’re here for your pet’s emergencies—24/7, every day of the year.
