Yorkie Eye Discharge: Causes, Remedies, and When to See a Vet

What Causes Eye Discharge in Yorkies?

Eye discharge, or “boogers,” in Yorkies is a common occurrence and can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from simple irritants to more serious conditions.

Here are some of the most common causes of eye discharge in Yorkies:

• Allergies: Yorkies can be allergic to pollen, dust mites, mold, and other allergens, which can irritate the eyes and cause discharge.
• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): This is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergies.
  
• Blocked Tear Ducts: These ducts drain tears from the eyes into the nose. If they become blocked, tears can pool in the eye, causing discharge.
  
• Infection: Bacterial or viral infections can cause inflammation and discharge in the eyes.
• Foreign Object: A small object, like a piece of grass or dirt, can get lodged in the eye and cause irritation and discharge.
• Dry Eye: This condition occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears to keep them lubricated. It can cause irritation and discharge.
• Entropion: This is a condition where the eyelids turn inward, irritating the cornea (the clear outer layer of the eye) and causing discharge.
• Glaucoma: This is a serious condition that affects the pressure inside the eye. It can cause eye pain, redness, and discharge.

It’s important to note that eye discharge can be a symptom of other underlying health issues in Yorkies. If you notice your Yorkie has eye discharge, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

What Are Some Home Remedies for Yorkie Eye Discharge?

While home remedies can help alleviate mild eye discharge, they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care.

Here are some safe home remedies that might provide temporary relief:

• Warm Compress: Apply a warm compress (not hot) to the affected eye for a few minutes, several times a day. This can help loosen the discharge and make it easier to wipe away.
  
• Gentle Cleaning: Use a clean, soft cloth or cotton ball moistened with warm water or saline solution to gently wipe away the discharge. Be careful not to rub or press too hard, as this can irritate the eyes.
• Saline Eye Drops: Over-the-counter saline eye drops can help flush out irritants and cleanse the eyes.

It’s essential to keep your Yorkie’s eyes clean and free of discharge, especially if they are prone to eye problems. Regularly cleaning your Yorkie’s eyes can help prevent infections and keep them comfortable.

When Should I Take My Yorkie to the Vet for Eye Discharge?

While some eye discharge is normal, it’s essential to be aware of the signs that require professional attention. If you notice any of the following, contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Excessive discharge: If the discharge is heavy or thick, or if it persists for more than a few days, it’s a sign that something is wrong.
• Change in discharge color: If the discharge changes color to yellow, green, or bloody, it could indicate an infection or more serious problem.
• Swelling around the eyes: Swelling around the eyes can be a sign of inflammation or infection.
• Redness or inflammation of the eye: These symptoms may indicate an infection or irritation.
• Squinting or pawing at the eyes: These behaviors could indicate pain or discomfort in the eyes.
• Cloudy or opaque cornea: This could be a sign of a serious eye condition.
• Difficulty opening the eyes: If your Yorkie has trouble opening their eyes, it could indicate a blockage or severe inflammation.

Early detection and treatment of eye problems are crucial to prevent further complications and protect your Yorkie’s vision.

How Do I Prevent Eye Discharge in Yorkies?

While you can’t always prevent eye discharge completely, taking preventive measures can minimize its occurrence and keep your Yorkie’s eyes healthy.

Here are some tips for preventing eye discharge in Yorkies:

• Regular Eye Cleaning: Wipe away any discharge or debris from your Yorkie’s eyes daily using a clean, soft cloth moistened with warm water or saline solution.
• Proper Nutrition: Feed your Yorkie a high-quality diet that provides essential vitamins and nutrients for eye health.
  
• Regular Vet Checkups: Schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian to ensure your Yorkie’s overall health, including their eye health.
• Avoid Irritants: Keep your Yorkie away from known irritants like smoke, dust, and harsh chemicals.
• Monitor for Allergies: If your Yorkie has allergies, work with your veterinarian to identify the triggers and develop a management plan.

What Does Eye Discharge Look Like In Yorkies?

Eye discharge in Yorkies can appear in various colors, textures, and quantities, providing clues about its underlying cause. Here’s a breakdown of common eye discharge types and their potential implications:

• Clear Discharge: This type is often a normal occurrence and can be caused by minor irritations like dust or wind. However, if it’s excessive or persists, it could indicate dry eye or allergies.
• White Discharge: Similar to clear discharge, white discharge can also be normal in small amounts. However, excessive white discharge, especially if it’s thick or pasty, might suggest a blocked tear duct or a mild infection.
• Yellow or Green Discharge: This type is usually a sign of bacterial infection and requires prompt veterinary attention.
• Brown or Bloody Discharge: These colors are a red flag and may indicate serious problems like corneal ulcers, trauma, or inflammation.

It’s crucial to observe the type and quantity of your Yorkie’s eye discharge to determine the severity of the issue and whether veterinary intervention is necessary.

What Happens if Eye Discharge is Not Treated?

Untreated eye discharge can lead to various complications, including:

• Corneal Ulcers: These sores on the cornea can cause pain, blurry vision, and potentially permanent damage.
• Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the conjunctiva can cause discomfort, redness, and potentially lead to a more severe infection.
• Eye Infection: Untreated eye discharge can escalate into a serious eye infection, requiring antibiotics or other medications.
• Vision Loss: In some cases, untreated eye discharge can lead to vision loss if the underlying condition is not addressed.

It’s crucial to seek veterinary care promptly if you notice eye discharge in your Yorkie, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms like redness, swelling, or pain. Early intervention can prevent complications and protect your Yorkie’s vision.

What are the Treatment Options for Yorkie Eye Discharge?

Treatment for Yorkie eye discharge depends on the underlying cause. Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam and may recommend:

• Antibiotics: If the discharge is caused by a bacterial infection, your veterinarian may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics.
• Anti-Inflammatory Medications: These can help reduce inflammation and discomfort caused by allergies or other irritants.
• Artificial Tears: If the discharge is caused by dry eye, your veterinarian may recommend artificial tears to lubricate the eyes.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct conditions like blocked tear ducts or entropion.
• Lifestyle Changes: Depending on the cause, your veterinarian may recommend lifestyle changes such as avoiding known allergens, providing a clean environment, and using a humidifier.

Your veterinarian will work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your Yorkie’s specific needs.

How Can I Help My Yorkie With Eye Discharge?

You can help your Yorkie recover from eye discharge by providing gentle care and following your veterinarian’s instructions. Here are some tips:

• Clean the Eyes Regularly: Wipe away discharge with a clean, soft cloth moistened with warm water or saline solution.
• Administer Medications: Follow your veterinarian’s instructions for administering any prescribed medications, such as eye drops or oral antibiotics.
• Keep the Area Clean: Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling your Yorkie’s eyes to prevent infection.
• Monitor for Improvement: Observe your Yorkie’s eyes for any changes in discharge, redness, or swelling. If their condition worsens, contact your veterinarian immediately.
• Provide Comfort: Ensure your Yorkie has a comfortable environment and minimize exposure to irritants that may worsen their condition.

With proper care and attention, most Yorkies with eye discharge can recover fully.

Can I Use Human Eye Drops on My Yorkie?

It’s not advisable to use human eye drops on your Yorkie, as they may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs. Some human eye drops can cause irritation, redness, or even vision loss in dogs.

Always consult your veterinarian before using any eye drops or medications on your Yorkie. They will recommend appropriate products that are safe and effective for dogs.

Table summarizing the information in the article

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about Yorkie eye discharge:

Can I use saline solution to clean my Yorkie’s eyes?

Yes, saline solution is safe and effective for cleaning your Yorkie’s eyes. Make sure to use a sterile saline solution that is specifically designed for pets.

What are some signs of dry eye in Yorkies?

Signs of dry eye in Yorkies include excessive eye discharge (especially if it’s clear and watery), squinting, pawing at the eyes, and redness or inflammation around the eyes.

Is it normal for Yorkies to have a little eye discharge?

Yes, a small amount of clear or white discharge is usually normal in Yorkies. However, excessive or colored discharge may indicate a problem.

Can I give my Yorkie over-the-counter eye drops for allergies?

No, it’s not recommended to use over-the-counter eye drops on your Yorkie without consulting your veterinarian. Some ingredients in human eye drops can be harmful to dogs.

What should I do if my Yorkie has a foreign object in their eye?

If you suspect your Yorkie has a foreign object in their eye, don’t try to remove it yourself. Contact your veterinarian immediately.

How can I prevent allergies in my Yorkie?

You can’t always prevent allergies, but you can take steps to minimize exposure to known allergens. Keep your Yorkie away from dust mites, pollen, mold, and other irritants.

What should I do if my Yorkie’s eye is swollen?

If your Yorkie’s eye is swollen, contact your veterinarian immediately. It could indicate an infection or other serious problem.