Dry eye, technically called keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), occurs when an underlying cause prevents the dog’s eyes from producing enough tears to keep keep the eye well-lubricated. About 80% of the KCS cases in dogs are linked to an immune problem the prevents proper tear production. Tears are composed of 3 parts -- an oily superficial layer, a watery layer, and an inner mucoid layer. Dry eye occurs when there is no liquid portion of the tear. A thick discharge accumulates in the eyes because the mucoid part of the tears is still produced. Because of the presence of the discharge, it may appear that the dog has an eye infection. But in the early part of the problem, there is really no infection. When tears aren’t enough to flush out dirt and bacteria that are present in the eyes, infection can eventually develop. A visit to your pet clinic Broken Arrow OK can help establish the cause of your pet’s dry eye problem so proper medication can be given.
