What are the causes of entropion?
Entropion can have various causes. Some dogs have a genetic predisposition to this condition, especially breeds with short muzzles or a lot of skin on the face, such as Shar-Pei, Chow Chow or Mastiff. In these dogs, the eyelid is often too tight or too loose and can easily curl up.
Other possible causes are injuries, infections or allergies, which can lead to swelling or scarring of the eyelid. Age can also play a role, as the tissue slackens over time and the eyelid gives way.
What are the symptoms of entropion?
The symptoms of entropion are usually clearly visible. You can recognize that your dog is suffering from entropion if you observe the following:
- The eyelid is rolled inwards and partially or completely covers the cornea.
- The eye is red, watery or ulcerated.
- The dog blinks frequently, squints its eyes or rubs its eyes with its paws.
- The dog shows signs of pain or discomfort, such as loss of appetite, restlessness or aggression.
How is entropion diagnosed?
If you suspect that your dog is suffering from entropion, you should take him to the vet as soon as possible. The vet will examine your dog's eye thoroughly and determine whether it is entropion or another condition. They will also check to see if the cornea is injured or damaged.
To confirm the diagnosis, the vet can perform a simple test. They will gently pull your dog's eyelid outwards and observe whether or not it rolls back in. If it rolls back in, it is probably entropion.
How is entropion treated?
The treatment of entropion depends on the severity and cause of the condition. In some cases, drug therapy may be sufficient to alleviate the symptoms. The vet may prescribe eye drops or ointments to reduce inflammation and protect the cornea. They may also give you painkillers or antibiotics if necessary.
In other cases, surgical correction of the eyelid is necessary. This involves removing or tightening excess skin to bring the eyelid into the correct position. The operation is usually a simple procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia. The dog must wear a protective collar afterwards to prevent it from scratching or licking its eye.
How can you help your dog?
If your dog is suffering from entropion, you can help him by doing the following:
- Keep his eye clean and dry. Use a soft cloth or sterile compress and lukewarm water. Avoid using soap or other irritating substances.
- Follow your vet's instructions regarding medication or post-operative care. Give your dog the right dose at the right time and make sure he wears the protective collar.
- Watch his eye for signs of complications, such as worsening symptoms, increased swelling or bleeding, or a change in the color or odor of the eye discharge. If you notice anything unusual, contact your vet immediately.
- Show your dog lots of love and patience. Entropion can be very uncomfortable for your dog, so be understanding and supportive. Give him lots of attention and cuddles and try to distract him from his eye.