What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is the result of elevated pressure within the eye. There is a constant production of fluid within the eye called aqueous humor. High pressures within the eye develop when this fluid is not able to drain properly. This pressure increase can cause damage to the optic nerve, resulting in loss of vision. Glaucoma can also result in a significant amount of pain and discomfort for our furry family members.

What causes Glaucoma?
There are two type of glaucoma – primary and secondary. Dogs and cats with primary glaucoma have an anatomical abnormality within the eye which is commonly inherited and can occur spontaneously. Unfortunately, there is no specific age of onset for this form of glaucoma. Secondary glaucoma can develop as a consequence of another disease process within the eye.

Is your pet at risk?
Although there is no way to predict if or when glaucoma will develop in our pets, certain breeds are predisposed to developing primary glaucoma. These breeds include:

DOGS:
Beagle
Border Collie
Boston Terrier
Cairn Terrier
Chihuahua
Cocker Spaniel
Corgi
Dachshund
Great Dane
Labrador Retriever
Maltese
Poodle
Samoyed
Scottish Terrier
Shih Tzu
Siberian Husky

CATS:
Persian
Siamese

Although these breeds are predisposed, all dogs and cats are at risk for developing glaucoma.

How is Glaucoma diagnosed?
It is important to annually screen your pets for glaucoma in order to diagnose cases early. Here at Guilford Veterinary Hospital, we are constantly striving to offer your pet the best in preventative care. Our new TonoVet Tonometer gives our doctors the ability to painlessly and quickly measure the pressure within your pets eyes. If this is something you are interested in for your dog or cat, or if you have additional questions regarding Glaucoma, please ask your Veterinarian!