Tonometry is the measurement of pressure within the eye, called intraocular pressure, to determine if glaucoma is present in dogs and cats. It is critical for your pet’s vision that glaucoma and other problems that can occur with intraocular pressure is detected and treated as quickly as possible. We can test your cat or dog’s eyes for excess pressure using a device called a tonometer. This test is not painful and does not require the pet to be sedated.
If not treated immediately within hours to days, glaucoma can cause permanent vision loss or blindness. Dogs and cats that have had any eye injuries should have this test performed. Glaucoma is common in certain breeds that are genetically predisposed, such as Samoyeds, Cocker Spaniels, Poodles and Beagles so it is recommended to have them regularly tested to monitor the eye pressure and begin treatment before any problems become permanent.
Call us right away if you notice any of the following problems in either or both of your pet’s eyes: dilated pupils, cloudiness within the cornea and/or increase in the size of the blood vessels in the white portion of the eye, red or bloodshot eyes, one eye protruding or appearing larger than the other, squinting, pawing or rubbing at the eye or face. Most animals may not display all of these signs initially, only one or two.
