Answer

Conjunctivitis is simply inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye (the mucous membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelids and continues over the front part of the eyeball). When this tissue is infected, the eyes burn and become red and runny (hence the nickname "pinkeye"). There are many causes of conjunctivitis--many types of bacteria can get into the eye and cause infection.

This is a condition that can become serious, if the infection isn’t treated and it grows out of control. In a worst-case scenario, the eye could be damaged enough by the bacteria to cause blindness. So if your pet’s eyes seem infected or inflamed, take him to the veterinarian for an exam.

Your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics and/or other eye treatments, and you’ll need to be sure to follow all the instructions for administering them. With a little help from you and your veterinarian, however, your pet with conjunctivitis can soon feel good as new.