PUBLICATION V82
Canine Glaucoma FAQs
If you have questions about this resource, contact the College of Veterinary Medicine.
Summary
Canine glaucoma is a painful eye disease caused by increased intraocular pressure that damages the retina and optic nerve, leading to vision loss and blindness. Glaucoma occurs when normal fluid drainage from the eye is impaired and may be primary (hereditary, affecting both eyes over time) or secondary to other eye diseases. Common signs include eye redness, cloudy or bluish cornea, dilated pupil, discharge, pain, behavioral changes, vision loss, and enlargement of the eye. Diagnosis is made using tonometry to measure eye pressure, with values above 25 mmHg considered glaucomatous, along with additional exams such as gonioscopy or ultrasound. Acute glaucoma is an emergency because irreversible damage can occur within 24–48 hours. Treatment aims to preserve vision and control pain using medications, and sometimes surgery. Although glaucoma usually worsens over time and often leads to blindness, many dogs can remain comfortable with proper long‑term management.
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