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Episcleritis (Redness of the Eyeball) in Dogs

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 17.02.2026

When to visit the vet?

Non-urgent see a veterinarian within 2–3 days

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.

Unsure about what’s wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our Symptom Checker for more clarity

Definition

Episcleritis is an inflammatory condition of the outer layer of the eyeball (episclera) in dogs, which leads to redness and Swelling of the affected eye. This condition is usually not painful, but it can cause significant discomfort for the dog.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Basics and possible causes

The episclera is the thin, outer connective tissue layer of the eyeball located directly beneath the conjunctiva. Its main function is to protect the eye and support the scleraThe sclera is the white outer layer of the eyeball that gives the eye shape and stability and protects it from injury. It transitions into the clear cornea at the front., the white part of the eye. Inflammation of the episclera can be triggered by various factors, including immunological reactions, infections, or injuries.

One of the most common causes of episcleritis is an autoimmune reaction in which the dog’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. attacks the body’s own cells. This reaction can be influenced by genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. and often occurs in certain dog breeds such as Collies, Cocker Spaniels, and Boxers. In addition, environmental factors such as allergens or pollution can promote the development of the condition.

Infections caused by bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease., viruses, or fungi are another possible cause of episcleritis. These microorganisms can penetrate directly into the episclera and triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. inflammation there. Systemic infections that affect the whole body can also impact the eye and triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. episcleritis.

Injuries or traumas to the eye can also lead to inflammation of the episclera. These can be caused by foreign bodies, scratches, or accidents. In some cases, increased light sensitivity or excessive sun exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats. can also promote the development of the condition.

Other less common causes may include tumors or growths in the eye area that put pressure on the episclera and thereby cause inflammation. MetabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. diseases or hormonal imbalances could also play a role, but they are less well documented.

Typical accompanying symptoms

Redness of the eyeball: The outer layer of the eye appears reddened, which is due to an increased blood supply due to the inflammation.
Swelling: The episclera may appear swollen, which makes the eye appear larger or bulging.
Tear flow: Increased tear flow may occur to cleanse the eye and mitigate the inflammation.
Slight light sensitivity: The dog may be sensitive to light, especially in bright sunlight.
Itching or discomfort: The dog may try to rub or scratch the affected eye to relieve the discomfort.
No or little pain: Unlike other eye diseases, episcleritis is usually not painful, which distinguishes it from other conditions.

When to see a vet?

Eskalation: ORANGE if there is Pain/photophobia, corneal clouding, pupil changes, a “bulging” eye, or worsening vision (differentials include uveitis/glaucoma, among others).

A visit to the veterinarian is necessary if the redness of the eye persists for more than a few days or worsens. Even if the dog shows signs of discomfort, such as frequent blinking, rubbing the eye, or reduced activity, a veterinarian should be consulted immediately.

If the dog shows additional symptoms such as Fever, loss of appetite, or lethargy, these could indicate a systemic condition that also needs to be treated. These symptoms require immediate veterinary examination to initiate appropriate treatment.

A sudden loss of vision or the appearance of a cloudy or opaque eye may indicate more serious eye conditions that require prompt action. Likewise, the presence of blood in the eye or persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. Swelling that does not go down should be considered an emergency.

Symptom recognition for the pet owner and veterinary diagnostic procedure

For the pet owner, it is important to recognize the symptoms of episcleritis early. Regularly checking your dog’s eyes can help you notice changes in time. Watch for signs such as redness, Swelling, or increased tearing. The dog’s behavior, such as frequent blinking or rubbing the eyes, can also indicate a problem.

The veterinarian will perform a thorough examination of the dog’s eyes to confirm the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.. This includes examining the eyes with a special lamp to assess the structure and health of the episclera. The veterinarian may also perform a fluorescein test to identify possible injuries or ulcers on the cornea.

In addition, blood tests may be performed to rule out other underlying conditions that could lead to episcleritis. If an infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. cause is suspected, the veterinarian may take a sample of tear fluid or conjunctiva and have it tested in the laboratory for bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease., viruses, or fungi.

What the pet owner can do and professional therapy options

At home, pet owners can take some measures to relieve the symptoms of episcleritis. It is important to prevent the dog from rubbing its eyes, as this could worsen the inflammation. A protective collar can help prevent rubbing.

Using artificial tears or special eye drops recommended by the veterinarian can help moisturize the eye and regulate tear production. These drops should be applied regularly to keep the eye clean and remove potential irritants.

It is important to keep the dog in a calm, relaxed environment to avoid stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., which could worsen symptoms. Avoid walks in strong sunlight or windy conditions to protect the eye from further irritation.

Although home remedies can be helpful, episcleritis should always be treated under veterinary supervision. The veterinarian can prescribe medications that specifically target the cause of the inflammation, such as anti-inflammatory medications or antibiotics for bacterial infections.

Outlook on current research

Research on episcleritis in dogs focuses on understanding the immunological mechanisms that lead to this inflammatory condition. Scientists are particularly investigating the role of immune cellsImmune cells are specialized cells of the immune system that help to identify and fight pathogens and foreign substances. These include leukocytes such as lymphocytes (T cells and B cells), macrophages, and dendritic cells. and inflammatory mediators in the development of episcleritis. These studies are crucial for developing better therapeutic approaches aimed at controlling the inflammation without suppressing the dog’s immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. as a whole.

Another important area of research is the genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. to episcleritis. Some studies suggest that certain dog breeds are more susceptible to this eye condition, which could indicate genetic factors. Research in this area aims to identify genetic markers that could enable early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and possibly even preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of the condition.

In addition, the effectiveness of new treatment approaches is being examined, including the use of topicalTopical refers to the direct application of medications or treatments to the skin or mucous membranes for a local effect, without being absorbed into the body. and systemic immunomodulatorsImmunomodulators are substances that affect the immune system by increasing or decreasing its activity. They are used in dogs and cats to treat autoimmune diseases, allergies, or as cancer therapy.. These medications could enable targeted treatment of the inflammation by addressing specific components of the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. that play a role in the development of episcleritis. Clinical trials are underway to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of these new therapies in dogs.

Researchers are also investigating alternative treatments, such as the use of herbal preparations and dietary supplements that may have anti-inflammatory properties. These approaches could be used as complementary therapies to relieve the symptoms of episcleritis, especially in dogs that do not respond well to or cannot tolerate conventional medications.

Another focus is on improving diagnostic techniques for episcleritis. Currently, veterinarians rely on clinical examinations and diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. by exclusion to diagnose this condition. Innovative imaging methods and laboratory tests could improve the accuracy and speed of diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and allow earlier intervention, which could positively influence the course of the disease.

An important aspect of research is investigating environmental triggers that can worsen or triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. the condition. These studies could help develop preventive measures that minimize the risk of episcleritis recurring in affected dogs. This includes identifying allergens or other environmental factors that promote inflammatory reactions in the eye.

Collaboration between veterinarians, immunologists, and geneticists is crucial to unravel the complex interactions involved in the development of episcleritis. Through interdisciplinary research approaches, scientists hope to develop more comprehensive and personalized treatment strategies that not only relieve symptoms but also address the underlying causes of the condition.

Research into the role of the microbiota in connection with eye inflammation such as episcleritis in dogs is also ongoing. It is suspected that the microbial balance on the surface of the eye could play a role in triggering or maintaining Inflammatory conditions. Future studies could show how probiotic treatments to stabilize the microbiota might help control the condition.

Finally, long-term follow-up of dogs with episcleritis is being studied to understand how the condition develops over time and which factors contribute to relapses. These findings could provide important clues on how to improve the quality of life of affected dogs and slow the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of the condition.

Frequently asked questions

What is Episcleritis? Episcleritis is an inflammatory condition of the connective tissue between the scleraThe sclera is the white outer layer of the eyeball that gives the eye shape and stability and protects it from injury. It transitions into the clear cornea at the front. (white part of the eye) and the conjunctiva of the eye. It leads to Redness of the eyeball and sometimes to mild Pain or irritation.
What symptoms are typical of episcleritis in dogs? Typical symptoms include noticeable Redness of the eyeball, tearing, eye Swelling, and occasional blinking or squinting. In some cases, the dog may also show signs of discomfort or Pain, such as rubbing the eye with its paw.
What causes the redness of the eyeball in episcleritis? The redness is caused by inflammation of the blood vessels in the area of the episclera. This inflammation can be triggered by immune reactions, infections, or other underlying conditions.
Is episcleritis in dogs a serious condition? Episcleritis is usually a benignBenign refers to a non-invasive, non-serious condition that is not life-threatening. In medicine, the term is often used to describe benign tumors that do not metastasize, meaning they do not form secondary tumors. condition that often resolves spontaneously. Even so, it should be examined by a veterinarian to rule out other more serious eye conditions and to take appropriate treatment measures.
How is episcleritis diagnosed? DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is usually made through a thorough eye examination by the veterinarian, who assesses the symptoms and the course of the condition. In some cases, additional tests may be necessary to rule out other causes of the eye condition.
What treatment options are available for episcleritis in dogs? Treatment may include anti-inflammatory eye drops or ointments that help reduce the inflammation. In more severe cases, systemic medications may be necessary. The exact treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the dog’s individual health status.
Can episcleritis in dogs heal on its own? Yes, in many cases episcleritis heals on its own. However, veterinary monitoring is important to ensure that no complications arise and to provide appropriate treatment.
Can episcleritis in dogs recur? Yes, relapse is possible. That’s why regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor the condition of the eye and start treatment again if needed.
Are there home remedies for treating episcleritis in dogs? While some home remedies, such as cold compresses, can help relieve symptoms, they should never replace professional veterinary care. It is important for a veterinarian to make the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and recommend the appropriate treatment.
How can I prevent my dog from getting episcleritis? Because the exact causes of episcleritis are often unclear, there are no specific preventive measures. However, general eye care and regular veterinary check-ups can help minimize the risk of eye problems and detect them early if they occur.