Appearing in either just one eye or in both, inflammation and redness could indicate any number of conditions. Perhaps your pet's eyes appear bloodshot due to a swollen eyelid, or a ciliary body, conjunctiva, cornea, iris, or sclera that is inflamed. A vet could determine whether or not the inflamed area itself points to a deeper condition. Other possible reasons your cat or dog has red eye could be even more serious:

• The front of the eye is hemorrhaging
• Blood vessels within the eye are hemorrhaging
• Glaucoma
• Orbital disease

Tests to Determine the Cause of Red Eye

A physical exam is probably needed in order to diagnose your pet's condition. The vet may order a blood chemical profile, a urinalysis, complete blood count, and more. Make sure you stay on top of your dog or cat's symptoms so that you can explain them fully to the vet, as this could help them determine what triggered the red eye.

X-rays may be needed to make sure that cancer is not the cause. Eye ultrasounds may be ordered as well. If your pet already has a known chronic eye disease, then a vet is going to want to an aerobic bacterial culture as well as a sensitivity profile. The same tests may be needed if a pet has something like pus oozing from the eye.

Some additional tests could include:

• Schirmer tear tests check that tears are forming normally.
• Microscopic (cytologic) exams are for the conjunctiva, cornea, and eyelid.
• A biopsy of the conjunctiva is used in cases of mass lesions or conjunctivitis.
• Fluorescein staining involves a non-invasive dye that enhances issues with the eye to make them easier to detect
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests and indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) tests are for cats only. These detect either a disease that's infectious or inherited, or herpes and certain bacteria, respectively.

Possible Treatment for Red Eye in Cats & Dogs

Regardless of the specific diagnosis, chances are that your pet will have to wear an Elizabethan collar to ensure that they cannot cause self-inflicted aggravations or injuries. In addition to this preventative measure, the recommended treatments can vary a great deal, depending entirely on the diagnosis. For instance, if there are embedded ulcers on the cornea, or if your pet has glaucoma, they may need surgery. Most treatments will not require any overnights at a hospital, however. Apart from whatever treatment is necessary for the condition, you will need to follow proper hygiene and safety practices, as well as take your pet to the vet for follow-ups.

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