Can retinal hemorrhage cause permanent blindness?

Whether permanent vision loss occurs depends on the extent and cause of the hemorrhage. Minor bleeding may allow partial recovery, while severe cases or those combined with other diseases may result in lasting visual impairment. Your vet is best placed to assess the prognosis for your individual pet.

What should I prepare before taking my pet to an ophthalmology appointment?

Prepare a written timeline of symptom onset, photos or videos of the eye and any unusual behaviours, a list of all current medications and supplements, and recent records of body weight and appetite. Book ahead at a clinic with fundoscopy capability.

What tests will the vet use to find the cause of the bleeding?

The vet will typically perform a full ophthalmic examination including fundoscopy, combined with bloodwork and blood pressure measurement. Ocular ultrasound or further imaging may also be arranged to identify the cause.

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

Retinal Hemorrhage in Dogs & Cats: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Care [2025]

Retinal hemorrhage often signals an underlying systemic disease

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/06

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: AVMA, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate veterinary care (emergency)

•Persistent heavy bleeding or continuous oozing from the eye
•Sudden loss of vision or inability to see within a short period of time
•Swollen eyeball, severe pain, or inability to open the eye

Schedule a clinic visit soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Rapidly worsening night vision or vision in dim light
•Frequently bumping into furniture or noticeably slow to react
•Visible blood vessels or small blood spots in the eye, but not heavy bleeding

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Retinal hemorrhage in dogs and cats commonly presents as visible eye bleeding or vision changes, particularly affecting night or low-light vision. Behaviorally, affected pets may bump into objects more often or appear less responsive.

Visible blood streaks, clots, or dark deposits in the eye
Uneven or asymmetric pupil size or shape
Sudden decline in night vision or vision in dim light
Bumping into furniture or slower-than-usual reactions when moving around
If significant bleeding or vision loss is noticed, seek veterinary assessment promptly

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Persistent, heavy bleeding or ongoing hemorrhage from the eye
⚠️ Sudden complete or near-complete vision loss over a short period
⚠️ Eye swelling, severe pain, or inability to open the eye

02What should you watch for at home? Home observation tips and emergency criteria

Home observation helps your vet build a complete picture: document when symptoms began, capture photos or videos, and track changes in appetite and activity.

Note the onset time and progression of bleeding or vision changes
Take close-up photos and video of the eye and any unusual behaviours (video is especially helpful)
Record any changes in appetite, water intake, or activity level
Monitor urination and defecation, and watch for melena (dark stools) or other signs of bleeding
Weigh your pet daily and track the trend; list all current medications and supplements

03How will the vet diagnose this? Common diagnostic tests

At the clinic, the vet will perform a thorough eye examination and supplement it with bloodwork, blood pressure monitoring, and imaging to identify the cause of bleeding and any underlying systemic problems.

Complete ophthalmic examination including slit-lamp biomicroscopy and fundoscopy

Blood tests to assess clotting function and screen for systemic disease

Blood pressure measurement to rule out hypertension-related hemorrhage

Ocular ultrasound and, when indicated, CT or MRI imaging

Radiographs or additional imaging to identify concurrent or traumatic causes

04How is this condition treated and managed? Medications, diet, and home care guide

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and typically focuses on addressing that cause with close monitoring. Regular follow-up visits to track vision and fundus changes are essential.

Short-term medications may be prescribed while addressing the primary underlying disease
Managing systemic conditions causing the hemorrhage, with dietary or lifestyle adjustments as needed
Regular follow-up visits to monitor vision and compare fundus images over time
Ongoing blood pressure monitoring and relevant blood chemistry tests
At home: prevent eye rubbing, reduce stimulation, and limit activity levels
For complex cases, referral to a specialty hospital with fundoscopy equipment is recommended

05What should you prepare before the appointment? Key steps to help your vet diagnose faster

Write down a timeline of symptom onset and how they have changed

Bring eye photos and behaviour videos to help the vet assess the situation

Record recent diet, elimination habits, and body weight changes

Prepare a complete list of all current prescription medications and supplements

Use a secure carrier and bring a familiar blanket or toy to help keep your pet calm

Call ahead to book an appointment at a clinic with fundoscopy capability

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.