How CBD Can Help Treat Glaucoma In Dogs

Table of Contents

• 1. What Is Glaucoma?
• 2. What Causes Glaucoma?
• 3. Signs and Symptoms of Glaucoma
• 4. How Is Glaucoma In Dogs Diagnosed?
• 5. How CBD Oil Can Help Treat Glaucoma In Dogs
• 6. What is CBD Oil?
• 7. Is CBD Oil Safe For Your Pet?
• 8. What Are The Side Effects of CBD Oil?
• 9. How To Treat Your Dog With CBD Oil?
• 10. How To Prevent Glaucoma?
• 11. How To Choose The Right CBD Product
• 12. Why Choose Bailey's Pet CBD Products?

1. What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye disease that affects both dogs and humans alike.

It is a condition where fluid builds up in the eye, leading to an increase in eye pressure. In the United States, 1.7% of dogs are affected by glaucoma.

Blindness can occur if glaucoma is not treated. When excess fluid accumulates in the eye, or if fluid drainage is inadequate, the eye pressure increases, causing damage to the retina and optic nerve.

There are two different types of glaucoma: primary and secondary.

Primary glaucoma occurs when there is an increase in intraocular pressure in an eye considered healthy. Secondary glaucoma is when increased intraocular pressure is caused by disease or an injury to the eye.

2. What Causes Glaucoma?

Inside the eyes, an improper balance of fluid due to the eye’s filtration angles or other eye conditions such as tumors, injury, or inflammation, often results in increased pressure, ultimately leading to glaucoma.

Sadly, nearly 40% of dogs become blind in the affected eye, despite treatment or surgery.

While glaucoma can affect all dogs, some breeds have a genetic predisposition, making them more susceptible. The most common dog breeds associated with glaucoma include:

• Cocker Spaniel
• Chow Chow
• Samoyed
• Poodle
• Beagle
• Jack Russell Terrier
• Siberian Husky
• Dalmatian
• Chihuahua
• Basset Hounds
• Great Dane

3. Signs and Symptoms of Glaucoma in Dogs

Identifying glaucoma in dogs can be challenging as they often hide their pain. It's crucial to know the signs to ensure timely care. Look out for these symptoms indicating possible glaucoma in your dog:

• Watery discharge from the eyes
• Redness in the affected eye
• Constant rubbing of the eye with a paw or against objects
• A cloudy cornea, indicating fluid buildup
• Light sensitivity: avoiding bright environments
• Uneven pupil sizes, a sign of pressure changes in the eye
• Frequent squinting, indicating discomfort
• Bulging eyes, a symptom of increased pressure
• Fluttering eye movements, suggesting visual impairment
• Noticeable vision problems: difficulty in navigation
• Clumsiness: bumping into objects more than usual
• Challenges in finding usual items or places
• Changes in appetite, possibly due to discomfort or pain
• Progression to blindness, in severe cases

4. How Is Glaucoma Diagnosed in Dogs?

Noticing any signs of glaucoma? Immediate veterinary attention is crucial. Delayed action could lead to irreversible blindness if glaucoma remains untreated.

To pinpoint glaucoma, your vet will measure your dog's intraocular pressure using a tonometer. An early diagnosis is key to preserving your furry friend's vision, or at least halting the disease's progression.

In cases where the eye is irreparably damaged, the focus shifts to managing pain and preventing further harm, including safeguarding the unaffected eye.

In severe scenarios, surgical removal of the affected eye might be necessary to enhance your dog's quality of life.

5. How CBD Oil Can Help Treat Glaucoma in Dogs

In recent years, CBD Oil's popularity has soared, projected to become a 1.16 billion dollar industry in the U.S. by 2022.

Used to manage conditions like seizures, anxiety, chronic pain, and muscle spasms in dogs, CBD Oil is gaining recognition for its therapeutic potential.

Despite common misconceptions due to its association with marijuana, CBD Oil is safe and non-psychoactive, making it a suitable option for your four-legged companions.

Curious about CBD's impact on dogs? Don't miss our comprehensive CBD for Dogs Guide, where we unravel how it can aid and benefit your pet.

6. What Is CBD Oil?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound from the Cannabis Sativa plant, distinct from THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Unlike THC, CBD does not produce the “marijuana high”.

CBD is renowned for aiding relaxation and reducing inflammation. It has been acknowledged for pain management benefits, a critical aspect in treating various conditions.

For dogs suffering from glaucoma, CBD Oil can be a lifesaver. It offers relief from severe discomfort, enabling your furry friend to lead a happy, active life.

Known for its anti-inflammatory effects, CBD oil can significantly reduce eye inflammation, thereby alleviating pain. It's vital to remember that untreated inflammation can lead to vision loss.

As a natural supplement, CBD oil can kickstart the healing process. According to The American Journal of Pathology, it could potentially treat glaucoma and offer neuroprotective effects.

In glaucoma cases, glutamate, a neurotransmitter, contributes to vision loss. Research shows CBD's effectiveness in guarding against glutamate-induced damage, preventing the progression of glaucoma.

CBD oil plays a crucial role in protecting eye cells from neurotoxicity, halting cell death, and impeding the progression of eye diseases like glaucoma.

7. Is CBD Oil Safe For Your Pet?

The short answer is yes.

CBD oil is not only safe for your pet but also comes with an array of benefits, including:

• Reducing anxiety and depression
• Treating epileptic seizures
• Improving mobility and flexibility
• Managing symptoms of irritable bowel disease
• Alleviating fear and paranoia
• Enhancing heart health
• Easing symptoms of osteoarthritis
• Relieving nausea and vomiting

Wondering about the right CBD oil dosage for your dog? It's generally recommended to start with the lowest dosage possible and gradually increase as you observe your dog's response. Dosage often depends on your dog's weight.

Typically, larger dogs need higher doses, while smaller dogs require less.

8. What Are The Side Effects of CBD Oil?

While CBD offers many benefits for managing glaucoma, it's important to be aware of potential side effects, such as:

• Tiredness or lethargy
• Drowsiness, particularly in higher doses
• Changes in appetite, either increase or decrease
• Diarrhea, a sign of gastrointestinal upset
• Dry mouth leading to increased thirst
• Low blood pressure, noticeable in weakness or lethargy
• Tremors, though rare

If your dog exhibits any of these side effects, consult your veterinarian promptly to manage the condition and adjust treatment as necessary.

Remember, glaucoma is most common in dogs aged 3 to 7 years and older. It's less frequent in puppies or dogs under 2 years old.

9. How To Treat Your Dog With CBD Oil?

After your vet recommends CBD oil for your dog, it can be administered in two primary ways: orally under the tongue or by consuming dog treats infused with CBD.

Studies suggest that sublingual administration (under the tongue) is the most effective. This method allows for quicker and more efficient absorption into your dog's system, providing faster relief from glaucoma symptoms.

CBD-infused dog treats, while easier to administer, may take longer to provide relief. The treats need to be chewed and digested before the CBD can be fully absorbed into the dog's system.

In cases of severe glaucoma symptoms, a combination of both CBD oil and treats can be used for more effective management of the condition.

Wondering how to prevent glaucoma in dogs? Stay tuned for preventative tips in the next section.

10. How To Prevent Glaucoma?

While primary glaucoma, linked to genetics, can't be prevented, there are ways to reduce the risk of secondary glaucoma.

Prevent secondary glaucoma by minimizing accidents and injuries. Regular check-ups are crucial to ensure your dog's overall health and happiness.

Eye wellness exams are vital, especially for older dogs or breeds at high risk of glaucoma. These exams help monitor eye pressure and detect any early signs of the condition.

Prompt treatment of any eye-related injury or infection is essential to prevent glaucoma or halt its progression if already present.

Other preventive measures include administering antioxidants like vitamins C and E, and beta-carotene. These can strengthen eye cells and reduce damage.

Avoid extra strain on your dog's neck. Tight collars, leashes, or harnesses can increase intra-ocular pressure and potentially lead to glaucoma.

Early detection is crucial in preventing glaucoma and blindness. Regular eye exams help identify changes in eye pressure and other conditions that could lead to glaucoma.

11. How To Choose The Right CBD Product

Navigating through choosing the right CBD product can be daunting, especially for first-time pet owners, or as we like to say, 'pawrents'.

You naturally want the best for your furry family member, and that's where Bailey's Pet CBD Products comes in.

Since 2017, we've been offering THC-free, rich-hemp oil pet products. These are designed not to sedate your pet or produce any 'high effect.'

Lab-tested for quality and safety, our products are developed under the guidance of respected veterinarian Dr. Robert J. Silver, DVM, ensuring the utmost in quality and care.

When selecting the right CBD product, look for certifications of authenticity to confirm lab testing, and prefer options that are GMO-free for your pet's well-being.

12. Why Choose Bailey's Pet CBD Products

Witnessing your dog's struggle with glaucoma symptoms and pain is distressing. At Bailey's Pet CBD Products, we stand by the belief that "A healthy pet is a happy pet."

Consider CBD oil for managing your dog's discomfort. It's a compassionate choice to offer quick relief and enhance their well-being.

Our team of specialists is eager to assist you in finding the ideal CBD solution for your furry family member.

Contact our experts today for personalized guidance.