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My dog has an eye ulcer. Are OTC pain relief and eye drops safe?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Whippet | Female | spayed | 17 lbs

My dog has severe eye ulcer currently being treated. What can I give her OTC for pain and I was told to get her some eye drops. What kind is safe for her?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 2nd, 2017

Unfortunately, there are no safe OTC pain medications for dogs. Many are toxic to them, and can be fatal if given. In order for Winnie to have pain medications, she will have to see the vet to get a prescription for them.

As for eye drops, sterile saline eye drops are safe for her (make sure they don't contain any medication in them), but I would check with your vet first before using anything. You can ask your vet to clarify what eye drops they want you to give her, as they can see Winnie in person and will know best what things are safe to use in her eyes. The eye is such a delicate and important structure, and because treating it wrong can lead to vision loss, it's best to get that information from the vet who is treating Winnie's severe eye ulcer.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on June 24th, 2019
Unfortunately there are not OTC pain medications you can give Sky. Many human ones are toxic to dogs, and can be fatal if given. If he's in a lot of pain, I'd take him into an ER vet now. Best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on April 3rd, 2020
Poor Rosie. There are numbing drops but they tend to impede ulcer healing. I recommend to call your vet and see if you can switch meds. Also ask if the medications can be kept at room temperature. And be mindful that room temp can vary from room to room. Colder medications will burn more.
Make sure Rosie is not rubbing the eye after the medications or she could make the ulcer worse. Make sure she wears her elizabethan collar. I hope this helps.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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