Can animals get red eyes? - The Environmental Literacy Council (2025)

The simple answer is yes, animals can indeed get red eyes. Just like humans, a variety of factors can cause redness in an animal’s eyes, ranging from minor irritations to more serious underlying health issues. This article will delve into the diverse causes of red eyes in various animal species, what to look out for, and when to seek veterinary attention.

Why Do Animal Eyes Turn Red?

Redness in animal eyes typically arises from inflammation or irritation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. This inflammation can be caused by a multitude of factors. Understanding these causes is essential for properly caring for your animal companion and recognizing when professional help is needed.

Common Causes of Red Eyes Across Species

• Irritation and Allergies: Just as human eyes react to dust, pollen, and other irritants, so do those of animals. These irritants can cause the blood vessels in the conjunctiva to dilate, leading to a bloodshot appearance. Allergic reactions can similarly cause inflammation and redness.
• Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can lead to conjunctivitis, often characterized by redness, discharge, and swelling of the eye. This is a common cause of red eyes in various animal species, including cats and dogs.
• Trauma: Any injury to the eye, whether from a scratch, blow, or foreign object, can result in redness and inflammation. Such trauma should always be assessed by a veterinarian.
• Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca or KCS): Insufficient tear production can lead to dryness, which irritates the eye and causes redness. This is particularly common in certain dog breeds.
• Underlying Health Conditions: Systemic diseases like high blood pressure can lead to retinal bleeding, which may manifest as redness in the eye. Certain genetic disorders and autoimmune diseases can also contribute to eye problems.
• Stress: While less common, stress can sometimes lead to red eyes in animals, especially dogs. This is usually temporary, but repeated or prolonged stress should be addressed.
• Sleep Deprivation: Just like in humans, lack of sleep can cause red and bloodshot eyes in animals. This is particularly noticeable in puppies that need a lot of sleep.

Red Eyes in Specific Animal Species

While the general causes are often similar across different animals, there are species-specific considerations:

Dogs

• Red eyes are very common in dogs and can be caused by allergies, irritation, physical trauma, infection, or even being tired.
• Cherry eye, or the prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid, is another cause, appearing as a red mass in the corner of the eye.
• Dry eye (KCS) is a common condition that leads to chronic redness and discomfort.
• Stress can also lead to red eyes in dogs.

Cats

• Conjunctivitis (pink eye) is the most common cause of red eyes in cats, often caused by viral infections.
• Cherry eye can also occur in cats, though it is less common than in dogs.
• Retinal bleeding can occur due to trauma, high blood pressure, or genetic disorders, presenting as redness.
• Haw’s syndrome, a condition where both third eyelids protrude, can occur due to various gut conditions and present with a red or inflamed look.

Reptiles

• Tree vipers, such as the Stejneger’s pit viper, are known for having naturally red eyes as a species trait and this is usually a pigmentation and not due to irritation.
• However, for other reptiles, red eyes can also indicate infection, injury, or shedding issues.

Birds

• Avian eye colors can vary greatly, and red eyes can be a natural trait depending on the species.
• For example, some bird species have eye colors including reds, blues and metallic golds.
• However, in some cases, red eyes in birds could signify underlying health issues such as nutritional deficiencies or infections.

Other Animals

• Many animals have natural coloration around the eyes that can be red, but this is different from actual redness due to inflammation or irritation.
• Redness around the eyes could also be a sign of an underlying health condition or infection, and should be assessed by a veterinarian.

When to Worry

While some causes of red eyes are minor and treatable at home, it’s crucial to know when to seek veterinary help. Red eyes can sometimes be a sign of a more serious issue, potentially leading to vision loss if left untreated.

• Sudden Onset of Redness: If your animal develops red eyes suddenly and the condition is worsening, prompt veterinary attention is essential.
• Other Symptoms: If red eyes are accompanied by discharge, swelling, pain, squinting, pawing at the eyes, or changes in vision, consult a vet.
• Lack of Improvement: If home treatments do not show any improvement in 24-48 hours, it’s time to seek professional help.
• History of Eye Issues: Animals with a history of eye problems should be monitored more closely and their veterinarian should be consulted as soon as possible if any changes occur.

Home Care

For minor irritations, some home care measures can provide relief:

• Saline Eye Drops: Using saline eye drops can help flush out irritants and provide temporary relief.
• Colloidal Silver: Some pet owners use colloidal silver to rinse out the eyes, which has some antibacterial properties.
• Aloe Vera Gel: Applying aloe vera gel in and around the eyes can act as a moisturizer and reduce inflammation but should be done carefully and only with pet-safe products.

However, these home treatments should not replace professional veterinary care, especially if the condition does not improve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can dogs get red eyes from stress?

Yes, occasionally stress may cause red eyes in dogs, but this is not as common as other medical conditions or injuries.

2. Are red eyes in dogs serious?

Depending on the cause, red eyes can range from a minor issue to a serious—even life-threatening—medical condition. A dog with red eyes can also be at risk of significant vision loss or blindness.

3. What is a cherry eye in cats?

Cherry eye is a colloquial term used to describe prolapse (popping out) of the gland of the third eyelid in cats.

4. Why does my cat’s eye look bloody?

Retinal bleeding may be caused by genetic disorders, trauma, or high blood pressure.

5. How can I treat my cats red eye?

Treatment for red eye in cats may include oral antibiotics, eye medication (antibiotics or anti-virals), and oral and ocular anti-inflammatories, as prescribed by a veterinarian.

6. Do dogs get red eyes when tired?

Yes, sometimes red eyes in dogs, especially puppies, could indicate they are tired and need rest.

7. How can I treat my dog’s red eye at home?

Saline eye drops, colloidal silver eye rinses, and pet-safe aloe vera gel application are options for temporary relief from mild irritation.

8. Do red eyes exist in humans?

Yes, albinism can cause red or pink eyes in humans due to a lack of melanin, making blood vessels visible.

9. Why do animals eyes turn red in photos?

The light-reflecting surface in an animal’s eye, called the tapetum lucidum, causes eye shine or red eye in photos.

10. Can birds have red eyes?

Yes, avian eye colors range from dark brown and yellow through red, blue, and green, with red eyes being a natural trait for some species.

11. What breed of cat has red eyes?

Siamese cats can appear to have red eyes due to an albino gene when light reflects off the blood vessels in the eye.

12. Can cats get pink eye?

Yes, pink eye (conjunctivitis) is the most common eye disorder in cats and requires veterinary attention.

13. Do cats cry when stressed?

No, cats do not cry tears for the same emotional reasons as humans.

14. What is Horner’s syndrome in cats?

Horner’s Syndrome is a neurological disorder affecting eyes and facial muscles, causing symptoms like ptosis, miosis, and conjunctival hyperemia.

15. What is Haws syndrome in cats?

Haw’s syndrome is a condition in cats where both third eyelids protrude, often associated with diarrhea or other gut issues.

Conclusion

Red eyes in animals are a common issue with a wide range of potential causes. While some are minor and may resolve with simple home treatments, others can be indicative of serious health problems. Early recognition, prompt veterinary attention when needed, and diligent at-home care are essential for maintaining your animal’s eye health and overall well-being. Always consult with a veterinarian for diagnosis and appropriate treatment plans to ensure the best possible outcome for your beloved animal companion.