What are the common possible causes of scleritis?

Scleritis may be associated with trauma, bacterial or viral infection, or immune-mediated reactions. Diagnosis typically requires an ophthalmic examination, imaging, and laboratory tests. Please follow your vet’s assessment for further management.

What observations at home can help with diagnosis?

Note when symptoms started, take close-up photos and short videos of the eye, and observe whether your pet’s appetite, energy, and toileting have changed. This information helps the vet assess the progression and prioritise care.

Can scleritis affect my pet’s vision?

Severe scleral inflammation or complications involving damage to the eye’s internal structures may affect vision. If you notice a sudden change in vision or lack of visual response, seek veterinary care promptly for further assessment.

What should I watch for during follow-up visits while my pet is being treated?

Treatment and monitoring vary depending on the underlying cause. Follow your vet’s instructions for scheduled check-ups, cooperate with any recommended tests, and prevent your pet from rubbing the eye. Contact your vet immediately if symptoms worsen.

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

Scleritis in Dogs & Cats: Eye Pain, Photophobia, Symptoms & Treatment Guide [2025]

Scleritis is inflammation of the sclera (the white of the eye), causing redness, swelling, and discomfort. It is often linked to immune-mediated conditions and typically requires immunosuppressive therapy.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/06

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ACVO, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek immediate emergency care

•Obvious deformation or suspected perforation of the eyeball
•Sudden vision loss or complete unresponsiveness
•Heavy bleeding from the eye or obvious protrusion of the eyeball

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

•Persistent tearing or noticeably increased discharge
•Frequent squinting or pawing at the eye
•Obvious light sensitivity or suspected vision deterioration

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Scleritis often causes significant discomfort and pain. Pet owners usually first notice changes in appearance or behaviour.

Persistent squinting or frequent blinking, as if unwilling to open the eye
Noticeable redness or localised congestion of the sclera (white of the eye)
Repeated tearing or increased eye discharge
Obvious avoidance or resistance when the area around the eye is touched
Heightened sensitivity to light — seeking shade or avoiding light sources

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Visible deformity or suspected perforation of the eyeball
⚠️ Sudden vision loss or complete lack of visual response
⚠️ Heavy bleeding from the eye or obvious protrusion of the eyeball

02How should you assess the situation at home? Key observations and criteria for seeking emergency care

Recording and photographing symptom details at home helps the vet quickly assess the situation and prioritise care.

Note when symptoms started, how often they occur, and whether they are getting better or worse
Use your phone to take close-up photos and short videos, including any squinting and discharge
Observe whether your pet’s energy, appetite, and activity level have changed alongside the eye symptoms
Record whether water intake and toileting remain normal
Watch for excessive rubbing — such as pawing at the face or bumping into objects
If any medication or supplements are being given, photograph the packaging and note when they were last used

03How does the vet make a diagnosis? Common diagnostic tests

The vet will carry out an ophthalmic examination and may arrange imaging or laboratory tests to identify the cause and any complications.

Ophthalmic physical examination

inspecting the eye surface, pupillary responses, and periocular soft tissue

Intraocular pressure measurement

to rule out or confirm concurrent abnormal eye pressure

Slit-lamp or fluorescein staining

to assess damage to the corneal and scleral surfaces

Ocular ultrasound

to evaluate deep ocular structures and lesions

X-ray or CT scan

to assess the orbit or surrounding structures when indicated

Blood and other laboratory tests

to screen for infection or systemic disease

Biopsy or cytology

performed when the cause is unclear or a definitive diagnosis is needed

04How is it treated and managed after diagnosis? Medication, dietary adjustments, and care guide

Treatment is targeted at the underlying cause and may involve medication or surgery, with regular check-ups and imaging used to monitor progress.

Use topical or systemic medications as directed by the vet to control inflammation
Surgical intervention or tissue sampling may be needed for severe or unexplained cases
Prevent your pet from scratching or rubbing the eye during and after treatment
Attend scheduled follow-up appointments to assess vision, eye pressure, and recovery
Arrange imaging or blood tests as needed for long-term monitoring
Follow-up care at a clinic with advanced ophthalmic diagnostic equipment is recommended

05What should you prepare before seeing the vet? Key information to help the vet identify the cause quickly

Note when symptoms started, how they have fluctuated, and any possible triggers

Bring recent photos or short videos of the eye as supporting evidence

List the names of any current medications, eye drops, or supplements being used

Record any changes in appetite, water intake, and toileting

Bring any previous examination reports or imaging files if available

It is advisable to call ahead and book a consultation slot at a clinic that offers ophthalmic examinations

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.