Can I use human artificial tears?

Ask a veterinarian first. Some preservative-free tears are used short-term, but an exam still comes first for trauma.

Ask a veterinarian first. Some preservative-free tears are used short-term, but an exam still comes first for trauma.

Dog scratched in the eye

Squinting after a scratch is a same-day problem. Ulcers deepen when ignored.

Scenario	Eye injury
Vet vs poison control vs ER	Eye trauma and chemical exposure are veterinary emergencies or same-day urgent cases. Poison control may advise on chemical ID, but the pet still needs ocular exam. Sudden blindness or a prolapsed eye is ER now.

Prevent pawing with an Elizabethan collar if you have one
Do not rub the eye or apply leftover medicated drops from another pet
If a chemical splashed the eye, flush with sterile saline or clean water for several minutes on the way to care
Keep the pet in dim light if light-sensitive
Seek veterinary care the same day for squinting, cloudiness, visible trauma, or discharge after injury

Squinting, tearing, rubbing, and light sensitivity are classic.

Cat scratches are high risk for infection — say if a cat was involved.

Steroids on an ulcer can be disastrous. Wait for a veterinary stain test and plan.

E-collar until examined.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Contact your vet for anything urgent or unclear.

Can I use human artificial tears?: Ask a veterinarian first. Some preservative-free tears are used short-term, but an exam still comes first for trauma.