Why do Maltese get eye stains?

Eye stains, or tear stains, are a common problem for Maltese dogs. These dark-colored spots, usually around the eyes, can be caused by a variety of factors, from genetics to environmental factors. It is important for Maltese owners to understand the causes of these eye stains in order to take steps to reduce them and keep their pup’s eyes healthy. With the right care and attention, Maltese owners can ensure that their pup’s eyes remain clear and healthy.

Why Do Maltese Dogs Get Eye Stains?

Maltese dogs are known for their stunning white coat, which makes them a popular breed of companion animals. Unfortunately, many Maltese owners find that their dogs develop eye stains, which can detract from their appearance. In this article, we’ll explore the causes and treatment of eye stains in Maltese dogs and discuss why this breed is particularly prone to this condition.

What Are Eye Stains?

Eye stains are reddish-brown discolorations that occur around the eyes of dogs. Eye stains can range from light brown to dark brown, and they are caused by the buildup of pigment in the fur around the eyes. Eye stains are more common in light-colored dogs, such as Maltese, because the pigment from tears and saliva is more visible on light-colored fur.

What Causes Eye Stains?

Eye stains are caused by a combination of factors. The most common cause of eye stains is excessive tear production, which can be the result of allergies, dry eye, or other eye conditions. Dogs with eye infections or eye injuries can also experience excessive tear production, which can lead to eye stains.

In addition to tear production, Maltese dogs can also develop eye stains due to the presence of bacteria and yeast in the fur around their eyes. These bacteria and yeast can cause irritation and inflammation of the eyes, which can lead to the accumulation of pigment in the fur around the eyes.

How Can Eye Stains Be Treated?

The treatment of eye stains in Maltese dogs depends on the underlying cause. If the eye stains are due to excessive tear production, then treatment should focus on treating the underlying cause. If the eye stains are due to the presence of bacteria or yeast, then treatment should focus on clearing up the infection and then cleaning the area around the eyes to remove any pigment buildup.

In some cases, eye stains may need to be treated with medicated shampoos or topical medications. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the pigmented fur. In all cases, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best course of treatment for your Maltese.

How Can Eye Stains Be Prevented?

The best way to prevent eye stains in Maltese dogs is to keep the area around their eyes clean. This involves using a damp cloth to gently wipe away any excess tear staining and then using a mild shampoo to clean the area. It’s also important to keep the eyes well-lubricated, as dry eyes can lead to excessive tear production.

In addition to keeping the eyes clean, it’s also important to watch for signs of eye infections or eye injuries. If you notice any signs of infection or injury, it’s important to seek treatment from a veterinarian right away. This will help to ensure that the eye stains don’t worsen and cause further damage to your Maltese’s eyes.

Conclusion

Eye stains can be an unsightly problem in Maltese dogs, but with proper care and treatment, they can be prevented or managed. If your Maltese dog is experiencing eye stains, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. With proper care and attention, you can help keep your Maltese’s beautiful white coat looking its best.

Common Myths about Maltese Eye Stains

Myth: Maltese Eye Stains are caused by Tears

Fact: Maltese Eye Stains are not caused by tears, but rather a build-up of pigment in the hair follicles around the eyes. This can be caused by a variety of factors including genetics, environmental stressors, and hormones.

Myth: Maltese Eye Stains can be Prevented

Fact: While there are steps that can be taken to reduce the amount of pigmentation in the hair follicles around the eyes, there is no surefire way to prevent the stains from occurring. Some owners may find that dietary changes, increased exercise, or other lifestyle modifications can help reduce the severity of the stains, but it is important to note that Maltese Eye Stains are generally caused by genetics and will not be completely prevented.

Myth: Maltese Eye Stains are a Sign of Poor Health

Fact: Maltese Eye Stains are simply a pigment build-up and are not necessarily indicative of poor health. While it is important to monitor the area for signs of infection, in general, the stains are not a sign of poor health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes eye stains in Maltese dogs?

The most common cause of eye stains in Maltese dogs is tear staining. This occurs when tears overflow from the eyes, usually due to blocked tear ducts or excessive production of tears. Tear staining can also be caused by allergies and other eye infections.

How can I prevent eye stains in my Maltese?

The best way to prevent eye stains in your Maltese is to keep their eyes clean and free of discharge. Regularly clean the fur around their eyes with a damp cloth and make sure to keep their eyes free of any foreign objects. Additionally, it is important to take your Maltese to the vet regularly for check-ups and to address any underlying causes of tear staining, such as allergies or infections.

Conclusion

Maltese dogs are prone to getting eye stains due to the buildup of pigment in the fur around their eyes. Eye stains can be caused by excessive tear production, allergies, dry eye, eye infections, and eye injuries. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and can include medicated shampoos, topical medications, or surgery. To prevent eye stains, keep the eyes clean, well-lubricated, and watch for signs of infection or injury. With proper care, you can help keep your Maltese’s coat looking its best.