Blind Silent Eye in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

(Photo credit: Violeta Stoimenova/Getty Images)

Blind silent eye in dogs is a medical condition that involves a dog loses sight in one or both eyes, but without obvious, visible signs of eye damage or inflammation. It is often the result of a number of underlying conditions.

Older dogs and dogs that have developed high blood pressure or diabetes are most at risk for developing this condition

If you see any signs that your dog may be suffering from eye or vision problems, then you should consult your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. Here’s what you need to know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of blind silent eye in dogs.

Symptoms of Blind Silent Eye in Dogs

Blind silent eye in dogs causes symptoms that affect a dog’s vision. Some of the most common symptoms are:

• Moving awkwardly
• Lack of willingness to move
• Doesn’t seem as responsive as usual
• Have difficulty navigating areas they are familiar with (for example, around the house or yard)

Causes of Blind Silent Eye in Dogs

(Photo credit: Photo Zlatko/Getty Images)

There are several causes of blind silent eye in dogs. Some of the most common causes are:

• stare
• Degenerative retinal disorders
• Lenses that cannot focus correctly
• lead poisoning
• Ivermectin Poisoning
• Optic nerve hypoplasia
• Problems with the optic nerves (including trauma, cancer, and inflammation)

Veterinary Treatments

If you suspect your dog is suffering from: blind silent eyeyour vet will want to perform a complete physical exam. This includes blood and urine tests before a thorough ophthalmic exam focuses on the condition of the eyes.

In some cases, veterinarians may use a procedure known as electroretinography to measure the level of electrical responses in the retina.

When giving treatment, the course depends on the exact underlying condition. In cases where there is a detached retina or cataracts, vets may suggest surgical intervention to try to correct the condition.

If there is an infection, vets may try a course of antibiotics. As always, if your vet prescribes medication for your dog, it is vital that you adhere to the correct frequency and dosage instructions and complete the full course of medication.

While your dog is recovering at home, it is important to adjust your living situation so that your dog can move freely and without bumping into objects. In some cases, vets also recommend limiting your dog’s movement during recovery.

Remember that dogs can live full lives without their vision. Even older dogs can adapt to life with patience and training.

Has your dog developed a blind silent eye? What steps have you taken to help them with their vision loss? Tell us all about it in the comments below.