What are the common causes of blepharitis?

Blepharitis is commonly caused by bacterial or yeast infections, allergic reactions, eyelash abnormalities, or underlying skin conditions. The exact cause needs to be confirmed by your vet through examination and further testing.

What initial cleaning can I do at home?

You can gently wipe around the eye with a clean, warm, damp cloth or saline solution. Avoid pressing on or irritating the eyeball. If the condition worsens, seek veterinary care promptly.

What tests does the vet typically run to find the cause?

The vet will perform an ophthalmic physical examination, tear film assessment, and cytology. If needed, bacterial culture, PCR testing, or imaging may also be arranged to confirm the pathogen and extent of involvement.

Is blepharitis likely to recur?

Blepharitis may recur if the underlying cause — such as allergies or eyelash abnormalities — is not addressed. Consistent follow-up and treatment of the primary issue are recommended to reduce the risk of recurrence.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Blepharitis in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Care Guide [2025]

Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelid margins that can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or allergies — finding and treating the underlying cause is key.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2025/01/06

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVO, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Eye remains tightly shut for an extended period with obvious signs of pain
•Bleeding or broken skin around the eye with heavy discharge
•Continuous heavy purulent discharge from the eye

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Noticeable eyelid swelling and redness lasting more than one day
•Frequent pawing at the eye causing fur matting
•Increased discharge but appetite and alertness appear normal

01What Symptoms Indicate a Problem?

Blepharitis typically presents with redness and swelling of the eyelid margins, discomfort, and increased eye discharge, often accompanied by matted or locally absent fur.

Redness and swelling along the eyelid margins, sometimes painful to the touch
Swelling of the skin around the eye, with fur matting or local hair loss
Frequent pawing or rubbing at the eye
Increased eye discharge, which may be sticky or purulent
Persistent redness or congestion of the sclera or eyelids

02How to Assess the Situation at Home: Key Observations and When to Seek Emergency Care

Observing and documenting changes in your pet's eyes and daily behaviour at home gives the vet valuable information to assess the progression and potential cause.

Take close-up photos and videos of the eye with your phone to capture discharge and blinking patterns
Note the timing, frequency, and which side your pet is scratching or rubbing
Check whether fur around the eye is clumping, falling out, or consistently damp
Monitor for any changes in appetite, alertness, or activity level
If symptoms do not improve or worsen, arrange a veterinary appointment promptly

03How Will the Vet Diagnose the Condition? Common Diagnostic Tests

Your vet will perform a thorough ophthalmic examination and, depending on findings, arrange cytology, culture, or imaging studies to identify the cause and develop a treatment plan.

Ophthalmic physical examination

assessment of the cornea, conjunctiva, and eyelid margins

Tear film and corneal evaluation

measuring tear production and checking corneal integrity

Cytology

examination of discharge or surface cells under a microscope

Bacterial or fungal culture with sensitivity testing if indicated

Advanced diagnostics

biopsy, PCR testing, or imaging (CT) when needed

04How Is Blepharitis Treated and Managed? Medications, Adjustments & Home Care

Treatment may involve topical or systemic therapies, with medication adjusted according to test results and regular rechecks to monitor response and watch for side effects.

Topical or oral medications are selected and adjusted by the vet based on diagnostic results
If infection is present, treatment is refined according to culture and sensitivity results
The use of anti-inflammatory medications requires careful assessment and monitoring by the vet
Keep the area around the eye clean at home and prevent your pet from scratching or rubbing the eye
Schedule follow-up visits as directed to evaluate treatment response and plan next steps

05What to Prepare Before the Vet Visit: Key Information to Help the Vet Identify the Cause Quickly

Record when symptoms started, how they have progressed, and any potential triggers

Bring close-up photos and videos of the eye and scratching behaviour taken at different times

List all current medications, topical treatments, and supplements

Bring your pet's health record or any previous relevant test reports if available

Use a secure carrier and book your appointment in advance to minimise waiting time

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.