Distichia In Dogs: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
If you’re a dog owner, then you should read this article. Distichia is a condition that affects the eyelashes of dogs and can often lead to eye irritation, tearing and other vision problems. If you think your dog may have distichia, it is important to take them to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment. In this article, we’ll discuss what distichia is, how it’s diagnosed and treated, and some potential causes. We’ll also provide tips on how to prevent distichia in your dog. So please keep reading!
What Is Distichia in Dogs?
Distichia is a rare eye disorder in which an extra row of eyelashes grows from the edge of the eyelid. Although they look like normal eyelashes, these extra lashes are usually longer and thicker than normal and can cause various symptoms ranging from mild irritation to more serious vision problems. Distichia is most common in small breeds of dogs, although any breed can be affected. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at distichia, explore its causes and symptoms, and discuss the treatment options available for dogs with this condition.
Causes of Distichia
In many cases, the cause of distichia is unknown. However, some medical conditions may increase a dog’s risk for developing distichia, including:
- Entropion – a condition in which the eyelid rolls inward towards the eyeball
- Congenital defects – such as misalignment or abnormalities in the shape of the eyeball
- Trauma or injury to the eye area – such as being scratched by another animal or getting poked in the eye
- Certain skin diseases – like eczema or mange
- Allergies – to food or environmental allergens
- Genetic Predisposition – certain breeds may be predisposed to developing distichia due to genetic factors.
Symptoms of Distichia
The most commonly reported symptom of distichia is discomfort and eye irritation caused by rubbing against those extra lashes. Other signs may include squinting, redness around the eyes, tearing up, blinking excessively and even vision problems if left untreated. If you notice any change in your dog’s eyes that looks abnormal or uncomfortable for them, make sure to contact your vet immediately so they can check it out and provide an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options For Dogs With Distichia
Several treatments are available depending on your dog’s severity. Mild cases may not require treatment other than regular cleaning at home using warm water and cotton balls to remove debris from their eyes and prevent further irritation. To remove those extra lashes permanently, surgical removal may be needed for more severe cases. Your vet can determine the treatment options best suited for your pup based on their situation.
Prevention of Distichia
Since many cases have no known cause, they can be difficult to prevent, but there are some things that you can do to lower their risk, such as: having regular vet check-ups, avoiding trauma or injury to their eyes, keeping them away from allergens that could trigger flares; feeding them a nutritious diet, and monitoring them closely during grooming sessions when dealing with their facial fur.
Conclusion
Disticha is a rare eye disorder that affects small breeds more often than others but can also occur in large breeds. It is caused by either genetics or trauma/injury. Still, it often goes undiagnosed until it becomes severe enough that symptoms start showing up, like redness around the eyes, excessive blinking etc. Fortunately, multiple treatment options are available depending on each pet’s situation, ranging from home care practices to surgery if needed, so make sure you talk to your veterinarian about what would work best for your pup!
If your pet has distichia or any other eye condition, get them covered with furrr.co.uk! Furrr offers comprehensive pet insurance plans that provide coverage for distichia and various other eye-related issues. With furrr, you can rest assured that your furry family member will be safe and sound should anything unexpected happen. Get the peace of mind you need by getting your pup insured today!
