Ectropion (Drooping Lower Eyelid) in Dogs
Ectropion is a malposition of the eyelid in which a dog’s lower eyelid droops outward, making the inside of the lid, including the conjunctiva, visible. This malposition can lead to chronic ocular inflammation and infections.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
Basics and possible causes
The drooping lower eyelid is often a genetically determined anomaly that is more common in certain dog breeds, especially those with excess skin or very loose connective tissue. Breeds such as the Bloodhound, Basset Hound, or Cocker Spaniel are often affected because their breeding characteristics favor the development of ectropion.
The anatomical structure of the dog’s eye and surrounding tissues plays an essential role. In some dogs, the connective tissue around the eyes may be weak, or the elastic fibers may give way over time, which favors the drooping of the lid. These structural weaknesses in the eyelid muscles or connective tissue can be either hereditary or acquired after an injury or through age-related changes.
In addition to genetic factors, environmental conditions or trauma can also cause ectropion. Chronic ocular inflammation, allergies, or repeated eye infections can damage the skin and tissue around the eye and lead to ectropion. In rarer cases, a neurological disorder affecting the facial nerve can impair control over the eyelid muscles and lead to ectropion.
Typical accompanying symptoms
-
Watery eyes: The drooping of the lower eyelid can prevent tear fluid from draining effectively, leading to excessive tear production. This can cause the fur under the eye to be constantly moist.
-
Reddened conjunctiva: The exposed conjunctiva may appear irritated and red because it is no longer adequately protected. This irritation can lead to chronic inflammatory conditions.
-
Recurring eye infections: The exposed conjunctiva makes the eye more susceptible to bacteria and dirt, which can lead to frequent infections. Symptoms may include purulent discharge and swollen eyelids.
-
Visual impairments: If the irritations and infections are left untreated, this can lead to chronic changes in the cornea, which can impair vision.
-
Changes in behavior: The dog may rub its eyes more often or scratch its face with its paws, which indicates discomfort or Pain.
When to visit the vet?
A veterinarian should be consulted if the dog shows signs of discomfort, such as excessive rubbing of the eyes, constant blinking, or if the eye is red and inflamed. These symptoms could indicate a serious infection or another eye condition that requires immediate treatment.
If the animal has recurring eye infections or a significant deterioration in vision, a veterinary examination is essential. These symptoms may be signs that the ectropion has led to chronic eye damage that needs to be treated.
Even if the dog does not show any severe symptoms, a veterinarian should be consulted if the ectropion affects the dog's normal behavior, e.g. if it plays less or feels uncomfortable near bright light.
Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures
It is important for the pet owner to recognize the drooping lower eyelid by regularly checking their dog’s eyes. An open, everted lower eyelid and a visible, reddened conjunctiva are clear signs. Constant tearing of the eyes should also be considered a warning sign.
The veterinarian will perform a thorough eye examination to determine the exact cause of the ectropion. The entire eye environment will be inspected to rule out other possible eye diseases. The examination may include the use of special dyes to detect corneal ulcers or other damage.
In some cases, the veterinarian may recommend performing further diagnostic tests such as a Schirmer tear test to measure tear production, or microbiological tests to identify infections. This helps to determine the best treatment strategy.
What can pet owners do and professional therapy options
The pet owner can take some measures to alleviate the symptoms of ectropion. Regularly cleaning the eyes with a damp, clean cloth can help remove dirt and bacteria that could cause infections. It is important to be gentle to avoid additional irritation.
Avoiding dusty or heavily soiled environments can help reduce ocular inflammation. If the dog likes to stay in such environments, it is advisable to limit its time there or take protective measures, such as fitting dog goggles.
The use of artificial tears or special eye drops recommended by the veterinarian can also help alleviate the symptoms by keeping the eyes moist and reducing irritation. However, these products should only be used after consulting with a veterinarian.
In severe cases, surgical correction of the ectropion may be necessary to permanently resolve the problem. The pet owner should follow the veterinarian’s instructions carefully and arrange regular follow-up examinations to monitor the healing process.
Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.