PUBLICATION V86
Dry Eye Syndrome FAQs
If you have questions about this resource, contact the College of Veterinary Medicine.
Summary
Dry eye syndrome in dogs is also called keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), a condition caused by inadequate tear production or poor tear quality that leads to excessive evaporation and poor corneal lubrication. Common clinical signs include red eyes, squinting, dull corneal appearance, and crusty or mucoid discharge. Tears are essential for corneal nutrition, lubrication, debris removal, and infection prevention; lack of tears can cause permanent corneal damage or blindness. Over 80% of canine dry eye cases are immune‑mediated, though endocrine disease, nerve damage, congenital defects, and certain medications can contribute. Diagnosis includes a Schirmer Tear Test to measure tear production. Treatment focuses on stimulating tear production with medications such as cyclosporine or tacrolimus, reducing inflammation, and supplementing with artificial tears. Dry eye is usually chronic and requires lifelong management.
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