Conjunctivitis, better known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the soft, pink skin that lines the eyelids, making it hard to keep the eye protected from dust and other crud floating around in the ether. The skin swells up, exposing the pink lining and causing the eye to secrete anything from a clear, tear-like fluid, to a thick, viscous goop. More of a major inconvenience than a dire health hazard, it should still be treated quickly, since it is an infection of the eye, and is likely to be quite uncomfortable, and at the very least, is a highly contagious disease.
When it strikes, however, finding the best dog conjunctivitis treatment, or a cat conjunctivitis treatment, can be tricky. Here are two of the best choices on the market, and what you need to know before giving them to your pet.
Neo/Poly/Dex Ophthalmic Suspension
- A potent combination of two ophthalmic antibiotics (Neomycin and Polymyxin B) and the corticosteroid Dexamethasone
- Used for severe conjunctivitis
- Available as an eye drop or an ointment
- For dogs and cats
- Corticosteroid quickly brings down the swelling of the ocular lining (anti-inflammatory), BUT also increases the body's susceptibility to other bacteria by lowering the immune system (immunosuppression)
- Not recommended for long term use
Gentamicin Sulfate
- An ophthalmic antibiotic
- For dogs and cats
- Treats conjunctivitis caused by susceptible bacteria (both gram negative and positive)
- Available as an eye drop or an ointment
- Milder drug with less of a chance for negative reaction
Neither of these drugs should be taken if your dog or cat is allergic to any of the ingredients, and your vet should be contacted if the condition persists after treatment. Always follow your vet’s directions, and stop treatment immediately and call your vet if you believe the condition to be worsening.
More on Conjunctivitis
About Gentamicin Sulfate
About Neo/Poly/Dex Ointment
What Causes Cat and Dog Eye Infections?