How to clean your dog’s eyes naturally

Cleaning your dog’s eyes regularly is essential for their comfort and overall health. Dogs, like humans, can experience eye discharge, irritation, or debris buildup that can lead to infection or discomfort. While there are commercial eye cleansers available, you can also use natural methods to help keep your dog’s eyes clean. Here are some effective natural ways to clean your dog’s eyes safely:

1. Saline Solution

A saline solution is a gentle and natural way to clean your dog’s eyes without irritating them. It mimics the natural tears and helps rinse away debris and discharge.

How to Use:

• Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water (ensure the water is not too hot).

• Stir the solution until the salt is completely dissolved.

• Soak a cotton ball or clean cloth in the saline solution.

• Gently wipe around your dog’s eyes, removing any discharge or crust from the corners.

• Use a fresh cotton ball for each eye to avoid transferring any bacteria.

This solution can also help soothe the eyes and flush out irritants like dust or pollen.

2. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile has natural anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, making it an excellent choice for eye cleaning. It can help alleviate redness and irritation in your dog’s eyes, especially if they suffer from seasonal allergies or mild conjunctivitis.

How to Use:

• Brew a strong cup of chamomile tea and let it cool to room temperature.

• Soak a cotton ball in the tea and gently wipe around your dog’s eyes.

• You can also soak the cotton ball in the tea and lightly press it against the closed eyelid for a few seconds to allow the tea to soothe the eye.

Chamomile can be used daily if your dog’s eyes are irritated or inflamed.

3. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties. It can be used to clean your dog’s eyes and treat eye infections caused by bacteria or fungi.

How to Use:

• Gently melt a small amount of organic coconut oil until it becomes liquid (ensure it’s not too hot).

• Using a cotton ball or clean cloth, gently dab the oil onto your dog’s eyelids and surrounding areas.

• Carefully wipe away any debris or discharge.

• Be cautious not to get the coconut oil directly into the eye itself.

Coconut oil can also help soothe dry, irritated eyes.

4. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera has healing and moisturizing properties and can be used to clean the area around your dog’s eyes. It also helps reduce inflammation and provides relief from irritation caused by allergens or infections.

How to Use:

• Ensure that the aloe vera gel is 100% pure and does not contain any harmful additives.

• Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to a cotton ball or your finger.

• Gently wipe the outer area of the eyelid and around the eye area. Be careful not to get the gel into your dog’s eyes.

• Aloe vera can be used once or twice a day for cleaning, but if the irritation persists, consult with a veterinarian.

5. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is another gentle and natural remedy for cleaning your dog’s eyes. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with eye puffiness and irritation.

How to Use:

• Dilute the witch hazel with water in a 1:1 ratio.

• Dampen a cotton ball with the diluted solution.

• Gently wipe around your dog’s eyes, especially if you notice any discharge or dirt buildup.

Witch hazel should not be used too frequently, as it can dry out the skin if overused.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a good option for preventing or managing eye infections. It also helps balance the pH level around the eye area.

How to Use:

• Mix one part apple cider vinegar with ten parts water to dilute it properly.

• Soak a cotton ball in the diluted solution.

• Gently wipe around the affected eye area, removing discharge and debris.

• Be sure not to get the solution directly into your dog’s eyes as it could cause stinging.

ACV should only be used occasionally, and always dilute it to prevent irritation.

7. Clean Water Rinses

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best. Regularly rinsing your dog’s eyes with clean, lukewarm water can help keep them clear of debris and prevent irritation.

How to Use:

• Use clean, filtered water (preferably lukewarm).

• Gently pour water over your dog’s closed eyelid or use a soft, damp cloth to wipe around the eye.

• If your dog has a lot of eye discharge, rinse the area gently, wiping away the discharge with a fresh cloth.

Water is a good option for dogs with mild eye irritation or for regular eye hygiene.

8. Preventative Measures

While natural cleaning remedies are great, preventing eye problems in the first place is crucial. Here are a few tips for keeping your dog’s eyes healthy:

• Regular Grooming: Keep the fur around your dog’s eyes trimmed to prevent hair from irritating the eyes.

• Allergen Control: If your dog has allergies, try to limit their exposure to allergens like pollen or dust. Keep their bedding clean and wash their face after outdoor play.

• Diet: A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially omega-3 fatty acids, can promote eye health.

• Routine Vet Checkups: Regular visits to the vet will help catch any underlying health issues that could affect your dog’s eyes.

When to Consult a Veterinarian

While natural remedies can help with mild eye irritation, there are times when a vet’s care is necessary. If your dog experiences:

• Persistent or worsening eye discharge.

• Red, swollen, or bloodshot eyes.

• Squinting, pawing at their eyes, or excessive tearing.

• Cloudy eyes or any changes in the appearance of the eye.

These could be signs of an underlying health issue, such as conjunctivitis, glaucoma, or an eye infection, and you should seek veterinary assistance.

In summary, cleaning your dog’s eyes naturally is a great way to maintain their eye health and comfort. Always be gentle and use natural remedies that are safe for your pet. If in doubt, consult your veterinarian to ensure your dog’s eyes stay healthy and irritation-free.