In some breeds of dog, it is quite common for dark spots to appear under their eyes. This is a tear stain, which, although not a serious problem, deserves attention from owners as it can indicate more serious conditions.
So to find out all about it, read on. And in the following topics, check out the useful tips for preventing tear stains in pets.
- What is tear stain?
- Tips on how to prevent and treat
What is tear stain?
The so-called acid tear particularly affects pets with light hair and consists of a dark spot around the eyes. Some breeds are more affected, such as the Shih Tzu, Maltese, German Spitz, Pug, Bulldog, Poodle and Lhasa Apso.
However, it's more appropriate to just call it a tear stain, since the substance doesn't have any acidity. Its official name is chromodacryorrhea or epiphora and the reason they appear more specifically below the animal's eyes is due to the accumulation of tears in the area.
In a similar way to humans, pets' tears are produced by the lacrimal glands every day. They are also drained through the nasolacrimal duct, which carries them to the nasal cavity. There, the liquid is eliminated through breathing.
However, imbalances in the animal's body, such as excessive tear production, cause it to overflow. As a result, the area becomes moist and brownish in color. Blockage of the duct is another reason why tear staining can occur in pets.
The color of tears is due to the presence of iron. It is also due to porphyrins, which are substances that oxidize when they come into contact with air.
Tips on how to prevent and treat
The tear stain itself is not a serious problem, but it is worth preventing and treating. There can be a bad smell and even diaper rash, which is another reason to take care.
These include identifying with a veterinarian the cause of the excess tears, which may be associated with obstruction or anatomical malformation of the tear ducts. Other reasons are inflammation, itching, dermatitis, eye or conjunctival irritation, corneal ulcers or even excess hair in the area.
In addition, by understanding the cause of the tear stain, it is possible to choose a more appropriate treatment. This can range from the use of eye drops and sanitizing the area with specific products to the need for surgery.
Tear stains can be cleaned using specific products such as Soft Care Eye Clean Up. It is ideal for sanitizing the face and delicate areas such as the muzzle and periocular region. Eye Clean Up gently sanitizes, removing crusts and dirt. It also neutralizes unpleasant odours.
Get to know Soft Care Ophthalmic Line, the care your pet's eyes need.
Veterinarians can find out more about Soft Care's Ophthalmic Line by contacting the SAC - Customer Service.
