Dry Eye in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Dry Eye, medically known as Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS), is a condition in which the eyes do not produce enough tears to keep the surface of the eye healthy and lubricated. Without an adequate tear film, the eyes become dry, inflamed and uncomfortable, increasing the risk of infection, corneal ulcers and vision loss if left untreated.

Although Dry Eye can affect dogs of many breeds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are among the breeds known to have an increased predisposition. Fortunately, most dogs respond well to treatment when the condition is diagnosed early.

This guide explains the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of Dry Eye and why prompt veterinary care is essential.

What Is Dry Eye?

The surface of the eye is protected by a thin layer of tears known as the tear film.

Tears perform several important functions:

Keep the surface of the eye moist.
Provide oxygen and nutrients to the cornea.
Wash away dust and debris.
Help prevent bacterial infection.
Support clear vision.

When tear production decreases, the eye loses its natural protection and becomes inflamed and irritated. Without treatment, chronic inflammation can permanently damage the eye.

What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry Eye develops when the tear glands fail to produce sufficient tears.

The most common causes include:

Immune-mediated destruction of the tear glands.
Inherited predisposition.
Certain medications.
Trauma to the tear glands.
Nerve damage affecting tear production.
Less commonly, congenital abnormalities.

In Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, an inherited predisposition is believed to contribute to some cases.

Is Dry Eye the Same as Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome?

No.

Although the names are similar, they are different conditions.

Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) is usually an acquired condition that develops later in life and is commonly managed with lifelong medication.

Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome (CCDE) is a rare inherited genetic disorder caused by a mutation in the FAM83H gene. Puppies affected by CCDE develop severe dry eye from an early age and also have distinctive coat abnormalities.

Responsible breeders can reduce the risk of CCDE by DNA testing breeding dogs before mating.

Signs and Symptoms

Early recognition greatly improves the long-term outlook.

Common signs include:

Red eyes.
Thick, sticky or stringy eye discharge.
Frequent blinking.
Squinting.
Excessive rubbing at the eyes.
Cloudy appearance of the cornea.
Dull-looking eyes.
Sensitivity to light.
Recurrent eye infections.
Corneal ulcers in severe cases.

Symptoms often affect both eyes but may occasionally occur in only one eye.

How Is Dry Eye Diagnosed?

Your veterinarian will perform a complete eye examination. The most common diagnostic test is the Schirmer Tear Test (STT). This simple test measures the amount of tear production using a small strip of specially calibrated paper placed inside the lower eyelid for one minute.

Additional tests may include:

Fluorescein staining to check for corneal ulcers.
Examination of the eyelids and tear ducts.
Assessment for other eye diseases.

These tests are quick, non-invasive and generally well tolerated.

Treatment

Dry Eye usually requires lifelong management.

Treatment aims to:

Stimulate tear production.
Lubricate the eye.
Reduce inflammation.
Prevent infection.
Protect the cornea.

Depending on the underlying cause, treatment may include:

Tear-stimulating eye medications (such as ciclosporin or tacrolimus).
Artificial tear lubricants.
Antibiotic eye drops if infection is present.
Anti-inflammatory medications where appropriate.

Your veterinarian will determine the most suitable treatment plan for your dog.

Why Early Treatment Is Important

Without treatment, Dry Eye can lead to:

Chronic pain.
Persistent inflammation.
Corneal ulcers.
Pigment developing across the cornea.
Scarring.
Reduced vision.
Blindness in severe cases.

Early diagnosis greatly improves long-term comfort and helps preserve vision.

Living with Dry Eye

Most Cavaliers with Dry Eye enjoy an excellent quality of life once treatment begins.

Owners should:

Administer medications exactly as prescribed.
Attend regular veterinary rechecks.
Watch for increased discharge or redness.
Seek veterinary attention if symptoms worsen.
Never stop medication without veterinary advice.

Because Dry Eye is often a lifelong condition, ongoing treatment is usually necessary.

Can Dry Eye Be Prevented?

Most cases of immune-mediated Dry Eye cannot be prevented. However, responsible breeding practices help reduce inherited eye disease within the breed.

Breeding dogs should undergo routine eye examinations, and breeders should use DNA testing to avoid producing puppies affected by Curly Coat Dry Eye Syndrome (CCDE).

In Conclusion…

Dry Eye occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have an increased risk of developing the condition.
Common signs include red eyes, sticky discharge and squinting.
Diagnosis is usually made using a Schirmer Tear Test.
Most dogs respond well to lifelong treatment.
Early diagnosis helps preserve comfort and vision.

References

American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists. Information on canine Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye).
American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists Genetics Committee. Inherited eye diseases in dogs.
European College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists. Clinical guidance on canine eye diseases.
British Small Animal Veterinary Association. Canine ophthalmology resources.
World Small Animal Veterinary Association. Companion animal eye health and welfare guidance.

Disclaimer

The information provided in the Cavalier Knowledge Centre is intended for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice, diagnosis or treatment.