Glaucoma is one of the most insidious and urgent eye diseases in pets. It is commonly known as elevated eye pressure, and glaucoma in dogs most often presents as hereditary (primary). When intraocular pressure rises, the visual cells can sustain permanent damage within hours. That is why, with glaucoma, time is directly racing against vision. Below you will find which signs are emergencies and what you need to do.
What is glaucoma?
When the balance of the fluid filling the eye (aqueous humor) is disrupted, intraocular pressure rises. The elevated pressure compresses the optic nerve and retina, which are responsible for vision, causing permanent damage. Glaucoma is more common in dogs than in cats.
Emergency signs
If even one of the following findings is present, this is an emergency — seek care within hours:
- Sudden and severe redness in the eye
- Eye enlargement or swollen appearance
- Cloudy, hazy-looking cornea
- Signs of pain: restlessness, loss of appetite, not allowing the head to be touched
- Enlarged pupil that is unresponsive to light
- Sudden decrease in vision
Why is it such an emergency?
High intraocular pressure rapidly destroys retinal and optic nerve cells. If pressure is reduced within the first 24–48 hours, vision can be saved; delay most often results in permanent blindness. Glaucoma is one of the few ocular emergencies where you cannot afford to lose time.
Types and causes
Glaucoma is divided into two main groups. Primary glaucoma is hereditary and more common in breeds such as Cocker Spaniel, Basset Hound, and Husky. Secondary glaucoma develops in connection with another problem such as uveitis, lens luxation, trauma, or intraocular tumor. In cats, glaucoma is usually secondary.
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis is made by measuring intraocular pressure with a tonometer. In the early stage, pressure-lowering drops and medical treatment are used to try to control the disease; surgical options are considered in advanced and refractory cases. See our glaucoma treatment service page for details.
Is the second eye also at risk?
In primary (hereditary) glaucoma, if one eye is affected, the other eye also carries a high risk. Regular monitoring and, in most cases, preventive treatment of the healthy eye is therefore recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will glaucoma cause permanent blindness in my dog?
If not treated early, yes. High pressure rapidly kills the visual cells. Early intervention can save vision or preserve remaining vision in most cases.
Can elevated eye pressure be detected at home?
A definitive diagnosis can only be made with tonometry. However, sudden redness, eye enlargement, and pain are strong warning signs — if you see these, do not wait.
Can glaucoma be fully cured?
In most cases the disease is controlled but does not disappear completely. Glaucoma generally requires lifelong monitoring and regular treatment.
Glaucoma appeared in one eye — can it affect the other?
In primary glaucoma, the other eye is also at high risk. The onset of the disease in the second eye can be delayed with preventive monitoring and treatment.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace a veterinary examination. If you have any concern about your companion’s eyes, please consult a veterinary ophthalmologist.
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