Cloudy Eyes in Dogs

If your dog’s eyes look milky white, you’re probably worried and wondering what’s going on. A common misconception is that dogs with cloudy eyes cannot see or are losing their vision. While this can be true, it is not always true.

There are numerous causes of cloudy eyes in dogs and different signs to watch for. Here’s everything you need to know so you can get your dog the proper treatment.

What Are Cloudy Eyes in Dogs?

To understand cloudy eyes in dogs, we must first understand the structures of the eye that may play a role. 

• The very outermost layer of the eye is the conjunctiva, which is a clear protective layer over the sclera, the white of the eye. 
• The conjunctiva runs to the edge of the cornea, a clear protective layer which sits over the iris. 
• The iris, also known as the colored part of the eye, works by enlarging or shrinking the pupil, the black of the eye. 
• Behind the iris sits the lens, which helps focus light. 
• The retina sits at the back of the eye and senses light. 
• The optic nerve transmits visual signals to the brain. 

Cloudy eyes in dogs occur when either the lens or the cornea is no longer clear, thus creating a milky color within the eye. 

Cloudy eyes more commonly affect older dogs because many causes of cloudy eye result from diseases that are more common in older age. However, younger dogs can also be affected.

Some breeds are more prone to cloudy eyes than other dogs, because they are predisposed to specific diseases that cause cloudy eyes. 

Why Are My Dog’s Eyes Cloudy?

Cloudy eyes in dogs can be caused by many conditions. These conditions may arise suddenly or more gradually. Common causes of cloudiness include:

Age-Related Changes: Cloudiness of the eyes caused by normal, age-related changes in the lens. This change is called nuclear or lenticular sclerosis. It typically does not affect vision. 

Cataracts: Abnormal clumping of proteins in the lens of the eye. Cataracts may turn dogs’ lenses milky white and will cause vision impairments up to blindness. 

Corneal Dystrophy: White discoloration of the cornea, caused by cholesterol and/or mineral deposits. Rarely does this lead to blindness. 

Ulcers: Corneal damage, removing the surface layers of the cornea. Ulcers tend to be painful, so they are often associated with other signs, like squinting and redness. Additionally, ulcers can cause color changes in the cornea, from blue to red or a general haze. Left untreated, ulcers can cause irreversible damage and vision loss.  

Dry Eye: When the eye doesn’t produce enough tears, a condition called keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) occurs. This can lead to irritation and cloudiness of the cornea. Left untreated, this can cause damage and vision loss.  

Anterior Uveitis: Occurs when the uvea, a collection of structures in the eye, becomes inflamed, leading to a cloudy appearance. This condition has a variety of underlying causes, including infectious and inflammatory diseases. Uveitis can be painful and may ultimately lead to blindness. 

Glaucoma: Increased eye pressure. This puts pressure on the optic nerve, causing pain and inflammation. The eyes may also take on a hazy appearance. Untreated glaucoma may lead to blindness. 

Symptoms That Accompany Cloudy Eyes in Dogs

Since cloudy dog eyes can be caused by so many different conditions, here are some additional symptoms to look for to help narrow down the cause:

Red cloudy eyes: This could be indicative of inflammation or irritation in the eye. 

Cloudy eye and discharge: Discharge is a sign of inflammation or infection. 

Blue and cloudy: This is the most common color for cloudiness and can be associated with old age. 

Bulging and cloudy: Bulging eyes, whether unilateral (one eye) or bilateral (both eyes), could be a sign of tumors or glaucoma. 

Small cloudy spot on dog’s eye: White or cloudy spots often occur on the surface of the eye, and they are most commonly associated with corneal dystrophy. However, a small cloudy spot deep within the eye could be the start of a cataract. 

Diagnosing Cloudy Eyes in Dogs

Many cloudy eye conditions can be cared for by your veterinarian. 

To properly diagnose the cause behind a dog with cloudy eyes, a veterinarian will start with a physical exam and potentially some bloodwork, followed by an eye exam. The eye exam will look for any abnormalities within the structures in the eye. Your veterinarian will likely perform a number of diagnostic tests, including: 

• Schirmer Tear Test: Measures tear production and may be used if dry eye is suspected. 
• Fluorescein Stain Test: Uses orange dye and a blue light to look for damage to the cornea, such as ulcers. 
• Tonometry: Measures pressure inside each of the eyes and used to screen for glaucoma.

If your veterinarian is unable to diagnose the cause of your dog’s cloudy eye, referral to a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist may be necessary.

Dog Cloudy Eye Treatment

Eye treatment for cloudiness varies depending on the underlying cause. While most conditions resulting in cloudy dog eyes are treatable, other cases of cloudiness may not be reversible. 

Nuclear sclerosis (cloudiness due to old age) is permanent. No treatment is needed; it is simply a result of aging, just like graying fur. 

Conditions related to infection, such as corneal ulcers and uveitis, may be treated with topical or oral antibiotics. 

Dry eye is typically treated with medicated ointments that aim to restore tear gland function. Additionally, your veterinarian may prescribe lubricating drops or ointment. 

Glaucoma is treated with medications designed to bring down eye pressure. These medications may come in the form of eye drops or oral medication.

Some conditions may warrant surgery. For example, cataracts have no treatment, except for surgery, just like in humans. 

In painful situations that cannot be cured with treatment, removal of the eye (enucleation) may be recommended. 

Dog Cloudy Eye Home Remedy

There are no approved home remedies for cloudy eyes. Due to the complex nature of eye conditions and the risk of blindness, home remedies put dogs at risk for further complications. Instead, contact your veterinarian for treatment. 

Cloudy Eye Medication for Dogs

Common medications for cloudy eyes in dogs include:

• Topical antibiotics, for corneal ulcers
• Topical immunosuppressives, such as cyclosporine or tacrolimus, for dry eye 
• Oral steroids such as prednisone for inflammation, such as with uveitis
• Oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, such as methazolamide, to treat glaucoma

Costs for a comprehensive physical exams (including an eye exam) and diagnostic tests may range from $200 – 300, depending on the tests your dog needs. Treatment for eye conditions can range from under $50 for single, short-term topical medication to several thousand dollars for cataract surgery.   

How to Prevent Cloudy Eyes in Dogs

Most conditions that cause cloudy eyes cannot be prevented. However, some cases are preventable. 

Cataracts in dogs are often associated with diabetes. You can reduce your dog’s risk of diabetes by keeping them at a healthy weight. If your dog does develop diabetes, proactive treatment can reduce the risk of cataracts. 

Uveitis may occur secondary to infectious disease. Ensuring that your dog is up-to-date on their recommended vaccines can reduce the risk of uveitis. 

Finally, corneal ulcers are often caused by trauma. You can reduce this risk by focusing on your dog’s safety. Don’t let them hang their head out the window while riding in the car, and monitor play with other pets. Seek veterinary care at the first sign of an eye injury. 

Even when cloud eyes occur, you can prevent complications, like blindness and prolonged pain, by contacting your veterinarian at the first sign of an eye problem.