Updated September 25, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: Eye problems can threaten vision within hours. Get same-day or emergency care for squinting or holding an eye shut, a cloudy or blue eye, a bulging or out-of-place eye, sudden blindness, a very red and painful eye, an injury, or chemicals in the eye. Prevent rubbing, and don’t put any drops in unless a vet tells you to.
Emergency signs
- Squinting, pawing at the eye, or keeping it closed
- Sudden cloudiness or blue haze
- Eye bulging or popped out of the socket (proptosis), especially in flat-faced breeds
- A very red, painful eye, possibly with a dilated pupil (glaucoma)
- Sudden vision loss
- Blood in the eye
- A visible object in the eye
- Chemical splash in the eye
First aid
- Prevent rubbing, using a cone if you have one.
- Chemicals: flush the eye with lots of lukewarm water or sterile saline for several minutes, then go to a vet.
- Proptosis: keep the eye moist with saline-soaked gauze and go immediately.
- Don’t try to remove embedded objects.
What to avoid
- Human eye drops or steroid drops, which can make ulcers much worse
- Waiting to see if it improves
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Conjunctivitis in dogs
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Corneal ulcers in small animals
- American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO): Pet owner information
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Glaucoma in animals
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.