Degu eye discharge

[degutisgoo]

Hi! I usually check this forum out whenever I'm looking for information for my goos So thank you so much!
For context: I own a male degu that is turning 7 this year and we recently adopted a small male degu that is around 4-5 months old. They have been getting along quite good, though they are still in the introduction stage..
So, the older degu has been developing cataracts in his right eye and from my understanding he cannot really see well through that one eye.. Sometimes he's been having days where small amounts of white discharge are around his eye, sometimes it dries up and he wakes up with a shut eye. For cleaning I usually carefully remove it with a cotton swab covered in eye drops.
But three days ago, his eye has gotten way worse, he's been having discharge multiple times a day for three days now, it appeared to be better yesterday, as he only had discharge once, but he woke up with it again today.. His eye seems quite swollen.. I am thinking of calling the vet for an appointment, but he is very old, so I am scared of stressing him out.. Any tips or ideas? Should I not let the little one meet the older degu until his eye gets better? Thank you very very much!

[savvy]

Welcome to the forum. I'm sorry to hear about the problems your degu is experiencing.

From what you describe I think a vet visit would be a good idea. Do you have access to a degu experienced vet? Check here if you need one: deguworld.proboards.com/thread/15521/vet-guide

Discharge from the eyes could be related to his teeth and its possible that he may have a spur or overgrown molar roots. Sedation and an x-ray is the only way to diagnose either, and this can only be done by a vet. He may also need painkillers, metacam is the one usually prescribed for degus.

I'm not a vet and can only go by my experience, but it doesn't sound like an infection. You can clean the eye using boiled cooled salt water as this may be gentler than eye drops.

Let us know how he's getting on.

[bouncy]

I agree with Savvy. A vet trip is needed.

It could be something as simple as eye irritation, an infection, or dental root issues.

The first two can be treated easily with either a topical cream, drops, or antibiotics.

The last can't be treated, but you know what it is, and pain medication will help to manage any discomfort.

[degutisgoo]

May 6, 2024 9:07:10 GMT savvy said:

Welcome to the forum. I'm sorry to hear about the problems your degu is experiencing.

From what you describe I think a vet visit would be a good idea. Do you have access to a degu experienced vet? Check here if you need one: deguworld.proboards.com/thread/15521/vet-guide

Discharge from the eyes could be related to his teeth and its possible that he may have a spur or overgrown molar roots. Sedation and an x-ray is the only way to diagnose either, and this can only be done by a vet. He may also need painkillers, metacam is the one usually prescribed for degus.

I'm not a vet and can only go by my experience, but it doesn't sound like an infection. You can clean the eye using boiled cooled salt water as this may be gentler than eye drops.

Let us know how he's getting on.

I see! He has been to the vet once for his teeth, as one of the bottom teeth of his broke and vet did mention his eyes getting some kind of discharge while the teeth are growing, so I don't think the vet will be able to do anything.. As what happened with the teeth falling out situation - she just said to wait it out as new teeth will grow..
And an update, for today his eyes are much better after the morning cleaning..