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My dog's eye is suddenly swollen and protruding. Is it an emergency?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 7 years and 8 months old | 24 lbs

Dog suddenly had eye swollen and protruding.

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on July 20th, 2017

This looks like a swelling of Poppy's conjunctiva as opposed to the eye itself. It could be due to an allergic reaction or infection such as conjunctivitis. She will need eye drops and antinflammatories to settle this down so go to your vet as soon as you can. In the mean time pressing a cooled tea bag on the outside of the eye can provide some relief.

39Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian
Published on September 12th, 2017
Poor Hazel. It definitely looks like she has some irritation of the bottom lid and the conjunctiva inside. This could be allergy related or an infection. I would have your vet oook at her as they will be able to ensure there are no scratches on the cornea and give her some eye medicine if needed. Try to keep her from pawing at it if she is trying. You can put a cone collar on her if needed. I hope this helps!
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Emily, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 22nd, 2017
This looks like swelling of the conjunctiva. This can happen due to a scratch, infection or other inflammation. If it doesn't improver in the next 24-48 hours Ozzy should get checked out by his veterinarian, sooner if anything gets worse.
4Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on March 28th, 2019
This sign may be compatible with a traumatic or infective conjunctivitis. An immediate check up would be needed to confirm this clinical suspicion and treat appropriately. Antibiotics and anti-imflammatory eye drops may be needed. Corneal injury must be ruled out as well.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Davis
Veterinarian
Published on December 16th, 2018
The red part is due to severe conjunctivitis causing the swelling. The blue in the eyeball is corneal edema. This is usually from a corneal injury. From the photo this is a severe injury and infection. He could lose his eye without treatment and this is probably very painful also. This needs treatment right away. They will examine the eye to make sure there isn’t something in it then prescribe medications to reduce the swelling and infection. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Rambo.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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