What to Do When Your Dog Has Bloodshot Eyes

Dog Eye Care ๐Ÿ“… August 9, 2026 ๐Ÿ‘ 8921

๐Ÿ“ Summary

When a dog's eyes appear bloodshot, it is likely caused by conjunctivitis, internal organ disease, viral infection, etc. So what should you do for a dog with conjunctivitis? It is recommended to use pet anti-inflammatory eye drops for a period. Eye swelling from viral infections like distemper should generally be tested with an infectious disease detector, then treated systemically. Internal diseases like kidney disease and pyometra need professional diagnosis before symptomatic treatment.

1 Overview

I. Conjunctivitis

When a dog’s eyes are bloodshot, the first thought is conjunctivitis, which is generally caused by wounds or bacterial infection. For controllable cases, owners are advised to treat the dog with pet anti-inflammatory eye drops for a period and see how it recovers; if the dog’s eyes do not improve, go to the hospital for further examination and anti-inflammatory injections.

II. Viral Infection

A dog’s red, swollen eyes may also be from a viral infection. Be alert to possible canine distemper virus infection. A dog with distemper shows bloodshot eyes, with much eye discharge, low spirits, reduced appetite, and other respiratory and digestive signs. If the above occurs, it is best to buy an infectious disease test strip to check whether the dog is infected with distemper virus.

III. Internal-Type Diseases

Dogs infected with endocrine diseases, such as kidney disease and pyometra, also show eye bloodshot. Eye bloodshot means the disease has developed to a serious stage, so the owner should best take the pet to a hospital. At the same time, be mentally prepared – the treatment cost will be higher.

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