Pet Owners

Learn About Common Eye Conditions

At Happy Pet Eyes, we focus on advanced, compassionate ophthalmic care for pets because their vision matters to us as much as it matters to you. Led by board‑certified veterinary ophthalmologist Dr. Jessica Martinez, DVM, MS, DACVO, our clinic protects vision, relieves pain, and restores quality of life through expert diagnosis, treatment, and surgery for a wide range of eye conditions. With a deep commitment to high‑quality care and personal attention for every pet and family, we aim to help your furry companions see clearly and feel comfortable again.

Cataracts in Pets

Cataracts cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy, affecting vision. Early detection is key. Look out for cloudy eyes, bumping into objects, or changes in behavior. Treatment may involve surgery in severe cases.

Glaucoma in Pets

Glaucoma is increased pressure in the eye that can cause pain and permanent vision loss. Symptoms include red or watery eyes, squinting, or reluctance to open the eye. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial.

Corneal Ulcers

A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the eye surface. Your pet may paw at the eye, squint, or tear excessively. Early treatment prevents infection and promotes healing.

Frequently Ask Questions

What to expect during an eye exam?

During your pet’s eye exam, you can expect a gentle but comprehensive evaluation focused on vision, comfort, and overall ocular health. Pets are gently restrained to keep them safe while allowing accurate testing. Because the doctor must work very close to your pet’s face and mouth, mild sedation may occasionally be recommended for anxious or painful patients to ensure comfort and safety. The exam room lights are often dimmed or turned off to allow better visualization of internal structures using specialized equipment such as a portable slit lamp and indirect ophthalmoscope. Testing typically includes assessment of vision and reflexes, tear production, corneal health, fluorescein staining for ulcers, and intraocular pressure measurement. The cornea may be numbed with topical anesthetic drops for certain tests or sampling, and the pupils may be dilated to allow a detailed retinal examination. Our goal is to obtain the most thorough information possible while keeping your pet calm and comfortable throughout the visit.

Signs your pet needs an veterinary ophthalmologist

Squinting or keeping one/both eyes closed
Excessive blinking
Pawing, rubbing, or scratching at the eye
Sensitivity to light
Redness of the eye or eyelids
Swelling around the eye
Discharge (clear, yellow, green, or thick mucus)
Tear overflow or staining around the eyes
Cloudy, blue, or hazy appearance
White, gray, or dark spots on the eye surface
Sudden change in eye color
Visible scratch or wound on the eye
Eye appearing larger or bulging
Eye appearing sunken
Unequal pupil sizes
Vision changes (bumping into objects, hesitation)
Difficulty seeing in dim light
Sudden blindness
Third eyelid elevated or covering the eye
Eyelid masses or lumps
Eyelids rolling inward or outward
Bleeding from the eye or surrounding tissues
Head shyness or reluctance to be touched near the face
Behavioral changes (lethargy, decreased appetite, irritability)

If any of these signs are noted, prompt eye evaluation is recommended.

Why my primary veterinarian referred me to a veterinary ophthalmologist?

A veterinary ophthalmologist provides advanced eye care that goes beyond the scope of general practice through specialized training, equipment, and surgical expertise focused solely on ocular disease. This includes detailed microscopic eye examinations, advanced diagnostics such as ocular ultrasound, electroretinography, and gonioscopy, as well as management of complex conditions like glaucoma, retinal disease, intraocular inflammation, and ocular tumors. Veterinary ophthalmologists also perform delicate microsurgeries—including cataract surgery, corneal grafting, intraocular procedures, and eyelid reconstruction—using specialized operating microscopes and instruments not typically available in primary care settings. We partner closely with your primary veterinarian to ensure collaborative care, clear communication, and continuity of treatment—working together to preserve vision, relieve pain, and support your pet’s long-term eye health.

Resources & Guides

We provide easy-to-use resources to help you care for your pet’s eyes. From step-by-step guides to checklists, these resources are designed to keep your pet’s eyes healthy and prevent complications.

Home Care Instructions Post Periocular Surgery

Step-by-step instructions for home monitoring and care to ensure safe recovery.

Home Care Instructions Post Corneal Surgery

Step-by-step instructions for home monitoring and care to ensure eye preservation.

Home Care Instructions Post Cataract Surgery

Step-by-step instructions for home monitoring and care to ensure vision.

How to Take the Best Picture of Your Pet’s Eye

To help our team at Happy Pet Eyes provide the most accurate guidance, clear photos are essential. Follow these simple steps to capture high-quality images of your pet’s eye