Glaucoma in Dogs: Is It an Emergency?

Glaucoma in dogs can destroy vision in less than 24 hours if left untreated. This painful eye condition requires immediate veterinary attention to save your dog's sight and relieve their suffering.

What makes canine glaucoma so dangerous is how quickly it progresses from mild discomfort to a vision-threatening emergency. Knowing the warning signs could mean the difference between preserving your dog's eyesight and permanent blindness.

Top Questions About Glaucoma in Dogs

When Should I Rush to the ER?

Glaucoma in dogs is a true emergency that requires quick veterinary attention. The condition causes dangerous pressure inside the eye that can permanently damage vision within hours. Rush to an emergency veterinarian if you notice a bulging eye, sudden blindness, intense eye redness, or signs your dog is in severe pain.

Could My Dog's Eye Swelling Be Glaucoma?

Eye swelling can result from several conditions, including glaucoma, infections, allergies, or injuries. Glaucoma typically causes the eye to appear larger or more bulging than normal, often with a cloudy or bluish appearance. If the swelling develops suddenly or is accompanied by squinting, excessive tearing, or changes in behavior, call a veterinarian right away.

How Do I Know If My Dog Is in Pain?

Dogs with glaucoma often show signs of eye discomfort including pawing at the affected eye, rubbing their head against furniture or the floor, or squinting. You might notice your dog becoming withdrawn, reluctant to play, or losing interest in food. Some dogs may whine or become irritable when experiencing the intense pressure headache that accompanies glaucoma.

Why Glaucoma Happens in Dogs

Glaucoma happens when fluid inside the eye cannot drain properly, causing pressure to build up. This pressure damages the retina and optic nerve, which are essential for vision. Some breeds naturally have a higher risk, including Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, and Beagles. Glaucoma can also develop after eye injuries, infections, or as a complication of other eye conditions.

Spotting Mild Cases

Early glaucoma may present with subtle signs that pet parents might miss. Your dog's eye might appear slightly red, especially in the white portion. You may notice mild cloudiness or a slight bluish tint to the eye. Some dogs blink more frequently or seem sensitive to bright light. These mild symptoms can progress rapidly, so any eye changes warrant a veterinary check.

Recognizing Serious Cases

Severe glaucoma is unmistakable and requires emergency care. The affected eye often bulges noticeably from the socket and appears significantly larger than the other eye. The eye may look very red, cloudy, or have a distinctive bluish tint. The pupil might appear dilated and unresponsive to light. Dogs with advanced glaucoma may bump into objects or show signs of vision loss.

What to Do

1: Call an Emergency Clinic Immediately

Call an emergency veterinary clinic as soon as you suspect glaucoma. Describe your dog's symptoms in detail, including when you first noticed them and how quickly they've progressed. Ask about current wait times and confirm they can see your dog right away. Every minute counts when treating glaucoma.

2: Document Symptoms

Take note of any changes in your dog's eye appearance or behavior. Photos can be helpful to show progression of symptoms. Write down when symptoms started and any other unusual behaviors you've noticed. This information helps veterinarians assess how quickly the condition is advancing.

3: Prepare for Transport

Keep your dog calm during transport to minimize stress and potential increases in eye pressure. If your dog seems sensitive to light, dim the lights in your car or drape a light cloth over their carrier. Bring any relevant medical records or information about medications your dog takes regularly.

Potential Life-Threatening Conditions

Untreated glaucoma can lead to permanent blindness, often within 24-48 hours of symptom onset. The intense pressure causes irreversible damage to the retina and optic nerve. Beyond vision loss, glaucoma causes extreme pain that significantly impacts your dog's quality of life. Advanced cases may eventually require surgical removal of the eye to relieve suffering.

Helping Your Pet Before the Vet Visit

Offer Comfort While Waiting

Keep your dog in a quiet, dimly lit area while waiting for veterinary care. Bright lights can increase discomfort for dogs with eye pain. Avoid touching or applying pressure to the affected eye. Do not attempt to administer any eye medications unless specifically directed by a veterinarian, as this could worsen the condition.

Preventing Future Glaucoma

Regular eye examinations are crucial for early detection, especially for breeds with higher glaucoma risk. Your veterinarian can perform simple pressure checks during routine visits to catch problems before they become emergencies. If one eye develops glaucoma, the second eye has a high risk of developing the condition later, making preventive monitoring essential.

We're Here to Help

Our hospitals provide emergency care for dogs experiencing eye emergencies like glaucoma. We understand the urgency of these situations and prioritize cases where vision is at risk.

If you notice mild eye redness or slight cloudiness without other concerning symptoms, schedule an appointment with your regular veterinarian within 24-48 hours. For severe symptoms like a bulging eye, intense redness, or signs of pain, call an emergency veterinary hospital immediately. If you're not sure, call us — we can talk you through the situation.

Key Takeaways

• Glaucoma in dogs is a true emergency that requires quick veterinary attention to prevent permanent blindness.
• Watch for warning signs like eye redness, cloudiness, bulging, or signs of pain in your dog.
• Quick action is essential—the sooner treatment begins, the better chance of preserving vision and relieving your dog's discomfort.