Eye Problems in Huskies: Symptoms and Treatment

Not only is the coat of the Siberian husky multi colored, but they also have multi-colored eyes which make this breed especially appealing. The color of your pet husky's eyes may range from crystal blue to brown or any other color.

Eye problems in the husky are quite common and include just some of the following:

• Glaucoma: An increase in the intraocular pressure (IOP) causes intraocular damage which may lead to blindness. The elevated IOP is caused due to the fluids that cannot leave through the iridocorneal angle. Schedule an annual checkup with the vet to measure the IOP and examine the iridocorneal angle, to delay glaucoma if not avoid it completely
• Corneal Dystrophy: Is usually an inherited eye problem in this breed. It is a non-inflammatory corneal opacity in any of the corneal layers. This usually affects both the eyes. Females are more prone to corneal dystrophy as compared to the males. The vision can be restored if properly treated
• Entropion: The eyelids roll inwards and this causes irritation in the eye. The eyelashes cause irritation in the eye thereby causing scratches on the cornea which may affect vision. This is not very common in the Husky
• Cataract: This affects both the eyes and can result in blindness. The lens becomes opaque causing blurring of vision or complete loss of vision in a few cases. Usually cataracts are hereditary except in some cases where it is associated with trauma or nutritional deficiencies
• Retinal Atrophy: Is a degenerative disease of the retinal cell which progresses to blindness. An electroretinogram examination is done to diagnose PRA. This damages the rods and cones, causing night blindness and then day time blindness. It is caused by chromosome mutation in Huskies which is passed on by the mother who is a carrier
• Conjunctivitis: Is a condition where the membrane of the eyelids becomes inflamed. The eyes look red and it causes great irritation and discomfort to your pet

Symptoms of Eye Problems

• The dog becomes less active especially in dim light
• Abnormal discharge from the eyes
• Constant scratching or rubbing of the eyes
• Difficulty in finding its own food plate and eating much less
• Bangs against the furniture or walls

How to clean your Husky's Eyes

Clean your pet's eyes daily. Being a very clean breed, huskies keep themselves very clean unlike most of the other breeds. Use a soft damp cloth to wipe around the eyes. Wipe away any discharge that gathers at the corner of the eyes. If the discharge is recurrent, it needs immediate vet attention.

The Husky is one of the more healthy breeds of dog, so health issues are not a major problem unless they are genetic. With an average life span of 12 years, the husky can be an amazing companion due to its gentle temperament. Take proper care of your pet's eyes to keep him in top condition.