Cloudy Eyes in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & When to Worry

What Does “Cloudy Eyes” Actually Look Like?

Cloudiness can affect different parts of the eye, and the appearance often gives clues about the cause.

Owners may notice:

• A white, grey, or blue haze over the eye
• A cloudy appearance behind the pupil
• One eye affected or both
• Redness, discharge, or squinting
• Changes that worsen over days or appear suddenly

The location of the cloudiness on the surface, within the lens, or deeper in the eye matters more than the colour alone.

Common Causes of Cloudy Eyes in Dogs

Age-Related Lens Changes (Nuclear Sclerosis)

In middle-aged and senior dogs, a bluish-grey haze in both eyes is often due to nuclear sclerosis.
This is a normal ageing change and does not usually cause pain or significant vision loss.

Key features:

• Typically affects both eyes
• Develops gradually
• No redness or discomfort
• Vision usually remains functional

This is one of the most common and least concerning causes we see during routine home visits.

Cataracts

Cataracts cause a white or milky opacity within the lens and can significantly impair vision. They may develop slowly or appear rapidly, especially in dogs with diabetes.

Important points:

• Can affect one or both eyes
• May progress to blindness
• Not painful initially, but complications can be
• Surgical treatment is sometimes possible (clinic-based)

In our experience, owners often confuse cataracts with normal ageing changes but the difference matters.

Corneal Disease or Injury

Cloudiness on the surface of the eye can indicate corneal ulcers, infection, or trauma.

Warning signs include:

• Squinting or holding the eye closed
• Redness
• Discharge
• Pawing at the face
• Sudden onset

These cases are often painful and should be assessed promptly.

Glaucoma (A Veterinary Emergency)

Glaucoma occurs when pressure inside the eye rises dangerously. It can cause rapid cloudiness, redness, and severe pain.

Red flags:

• Sudden cloudiness
• Enlarged or bulging eye
• Lethargy or behaviour changes
• Vision loss

Without rapid treatment, glaucoma can permanently damage the eye.

Inflammation Inside the Eye (Uveitis)

Uveitis can result from infection, immune disease, trauma, or underlying systemic illness. It may cause a cloudy appearance along with discomfort.

This condition often requires investigation beyond the eye itself.

When Cloudy Eyes Are an Emergency

Seek urgent veterinary assessment if your dog has cloudy eyes and:

• Is squinting or appears painful
• Has redness or discharge
• Shows sudden vision loss
• Is lethargic or unwell
• Has a known history of eye disease or diabetes

Eye conditions can worsen quickly waiting even 24-48 hours can change outcomes.

When Monitoring May Be Appropriate

If cloudiness:

• Is mild
• Appears in both eyes
• Is not painful
• Develops slowly in an older dog

… it may represent a benign age-related change. A non-urgent veterinary examination can confirm this and provide reassurance.

Why Early Assessment Matters

Eye problems are unique in that small changes can have big consequences. Early diagnosis:

• Reduces pain
• Protects vision
• Prevents secondary complications
• Allows appropriate referral when needed

One of the advantages of in-home assessments is being able to examine anxious dogs calmly eye exams are far more accurate when a dog isn’t stressed.

What You Can Do at Home (And What Not To Do)

Helpful steps:

• Note when the change started
• Check whether one or both eyes are affected
• Observe behaviour, appetite, and comfort

Avoid:

• Using leftover eye drops
• Applying human medications
• Waiting if pain or redness is present

Incorrect treatment can worsen eye damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cloudy eyes in dogs always serious?

No. Some causes are harmless, but others are painful or sight-threatening. Assessment is important.

Can cloudy eyes clear up on their own?

Age-related changes remain stable. Injuries or inflammation usually require treatment.

Do all cloudy eyes cause blindness?

No - but some conditions can if untreated.

Can this be prevented?

Regular health checks and prompt attention to eye changes help reduce risk.

A Final Word from the Vet

Cloudy eyes are a sign, not a diagnosis. Some causes are part of normal ageing; others require urgent care. The challenge for owners is knowing the difference and that’s where veterinary guidance matters.

If something about your dog’s eyes doesn’t look right, trust your instincts and have them checked. Early action often makes all the difference.

Suggested Links

• What to expect during a mobile vet home visit
• When emergency veterinary care is required
• Managing chronic illness in senior dogs
• Assessing changes in your dog’s quality of life

Author

Dr James H BVSc
Mobile Veterinarian (Australia)

Written from real-world experience delivering mobile veterinary care across Australia.

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