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Why is my dog pawing her red, swollen, purple eye with discharge?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Female | spayed

My dog Tinky is a 6 year old maltese. Lately I've noticed her pawing at her right eye. The skin around it is red, swollen and inflamed and has loss of hair. The sclera looks kind of purple. I don't see any change in her pupil or iris and she doesn't squint. She shows exessive blinking and watery discharge from the eye. She's not on any medication and doesn't have any allergies that I know of.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Elizabeth

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on May 1st, 2019

The sclera looking purple is very concerning for severe irritation and the pawing may indicate that Tinky is in pain. Just like humans, pets can get many eye issues and it could range from an infection to glaucoma or even a tumor. I recommend to have Tinky examined today if possible. It's important to determine the underlying cause and to make her more comfortable quickly. Pawing at the eye is also bad since she could cause a scratch. She should wear an elizabethan collar at all times to prevent injury. Best of luck.
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