Your pet is a big part of your family. As humans, we are hard-wired to form bonds with the people and animals that play a part in our daily lives. It’s no surprise, then, that we become concerned when our furry best friends suddenly start showing signs of sickness. For those with immediate families, this concerned can extend to the other members of the clan — can whatever illness your pet has be transferred to anyone else around them? Are you risking your child’s health by exposing them to a sick pet?

When it comes to illnesses in animals, there are some that are indeed capable of transferring to different species in a process called cross-species transmission. “Zoonosis” is a specific term used to describe an infectious cross-species disease caused by viruses, bacteria, and parasites. In today’s blog, Animal Eye Associates will be talking about eye infections in pets and whether they can be transferred to humans and other animals.

Eye Infections In Dogs

Any eye infection in one dog can be transferred to another dog through contact. If you have multiple dogs and one of them starts to show symptoms of an infection, the first step you’ll want to take is to segregate the affected pet. When that is done, call your veterinarian and have them take a look at your pooch to figure out exactly what’s wrong.

Eye infections caused by a virus or bacteria in dogs can be spread to humans, so isolation of the affected dog is also suggested in situations where they are the only one pet in the household. After examining or handling your pet, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly to prevent the spread of any potential infection to yourself or other humans.

Eye Infections In Cats

As with dogs, cats can spread eye infections quickly among their own species. In the case of an owner with multiple cats, segregate the infected cat and contact an animal eye care specialist to get a proper diagnosis.

Cats with a viral or bacterial eye infection can sometimes spread it to their owners, so follow the same advice for dogs given above just to make sure you don’t catch whatever your kitty has.

Eye Infections Between Cats And Dogs

Households with more than one species of pet will find the information above also pertains to their own situation. Eye Infections can spread quickly among different species, so it pays to be prompt in locations where cats and dogs live together. When in doubt, call a veterinary ophthalmologist who can offer specific advice and suggest the best treatment in a multi-pet residence.

When In Doubt: Segregate, Diagnose, and Medicate

It’s always best to be safe when it comes to eye infections in your pets. You should always segregate, diagnose, and then medicate if needed. When you can’t make a specific diagnosis yourself, leave it to an animal ophthalmologist who can pinpoint exactly what’s wrong with your pet and provide you with the best remedy to treat the problem.

Keep in mind that an untreated eye infection can lead to permanent damage to your pet’s health. Always take them seriously!

TOP RATED LOCAL® VETERINARY OPHTHALMOLOGISTS IN FLORIDA

If you’re looking for an experienced veterinary ophthalmologist in Florida to examine your dog or cat’s eyes, look no further than Animal Eye Associates. We specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of eye problems in animals, and we would be happy to help. 

Animal Eye Associates will treat you and your pet’s case with professionalism, courtesy, and compassion. Schedule an appointment online today.