If you want your pet to be happy, healthy, and full of zoomies, don’t overlook their eye and respiratory health! These systems play a big role in how your dog or cat feels day to day — whether it’s chasing toys, going for walks, or just cuddling up at home.
Cats and dogs are prone to both eye and breathing issues, especially if they’re active outdoors or live in homes with allergens, dry air, or multiple pets. The good news? With the right care (and a few natural helpers), these issues are often easy to manage or prevent.
We’ve put together simple, vet-informed tips and natural solutions to help you support your pet’s health from home. Let’s dive in!
Why Your Pet's Eye and Respiratory Health Matters
Watery eyes, stuffy noses, and wheezy breathing aren't just annoying for humans, they can be a big deal for pets too! While your dog might still try to fetch a ball with one eye half-closed or your cat might try to pretend they’re fine with a sneeze attack, these signs are worth paying attention to.
Some issues are just passing (like a little allergy flare-up), but others like cataracts, glaucoma, or chronic respiratory infections can stick around if you don’t catch them early. And cats? They’re professionals at hiding discomfort, especially when it comes to upper respiratory infections (URIs), which can last up to three weeks.
Bottom line: eye and respiratory problems can zap your pet’s energy, affect their appetite, and take the joy out of their day. But with a little know-how and some gentle support, you can help them stay bright-eyed and breathing easy.
Common Dog and Cat Eye Problems: What to Look For
Your pet’s eyes are more expressive than they get credit for. If you notice your dog squinting like they’re in a spaghetti western or your cat blinking more than usual, something might be up.
Here are some common signs of eye issues:
- Watery, goopy, or thick discharge
- Redness, swelling, or puffiness around the eyes
- Cloudiness or bluish tint in one or both eyes
- Frequent blinking or pawing at the face
Conjunctivitis, dry eye, corneal ulcers, and age-related changes are all common culprits. Senior pets and certain breeds may be more prone to vision issues.
Here’s what helps:
- Keep them hydrated
- Feed a diet rich in Vitamin A and omega-3s
- Gently clean around the eyes with a soft cotton ball
- Avoid using any human skincare products near their face
If you’re searching for a natural way to support your pet’s eye health, Arrowleaf Pet Vision Care is an effective herbal formula made with antioxidant-rich bilberry — traditionally used to promote healthy vision. It’s fast-absorbing and easy to add to food or give directly, making it ideal for aging pets or those with frequent eye concerns.
Natural Respiratory Support for Pets with Coughing, Sneezing, or Breathing Issues
If your dog is snoring wide awake or your cat suddenly sounds like a wheezy old man, they might need a little lung support. Pets can develop respiratory issues from dust, smoke, dry air, pollen, and all sorts of household irritants.
Watch for these symptoms:
- Sneezing, coughing, or wheezing
- Nasal discharge (clear or colored)
- Noisy breathing or open-mouth panting
- Sudden drop in energy or appetite
Most mild cases can be managed at home. Give your pet a quiet place to rest, keep the air humid with a vaporizer or steamy bathroom time, and offer something delicious and easy to eat.
For a little extra help, Arrowleaf Pet Lung Care is a gentle, herbal blend with Mullein, Lungwort, Irish Moss, and other airway-soothing botanicals. It’s designed to promote lung function and easier breathing — perfect for pets with seasonal sensitivities or chronic stuffiness.
How to Prevent Eye and Breathing Issues in Pets
You know what’s better than cleaning up after sneezes or dealing with mystery eye goop? Avoiding it altogether.
A good diet, regular exercise, and a clean environment go a long way. So does avoiding scented candles, smoky rooms, and harsh household cleaners. Groom your pet regularly (yes, even that fluffball who thinks brushing is a betrayal), and give them a once-over for anything that looks off.
This is also where Arrowleaf Pet Vision Care and Arrowleaf Pet Lung Care shine. These aren’t “wait until something’s wrong” kind of products—they’re meant to be part of your everyday toolkit. A drop here, a splash there, and you’ve just added plant-powered protection for two systems your pet relies on every single day.
When to See a Vet About Pet Eye or Respiratory Problems
Natural remedies are great for mild or seasonal flare-ups, but if your pet shows more serious signs, it’s time to call the vet. That includes:
- Symptoms that last longer than 48 hours
- Loss of appetite or refusal to drink
- Visible pain, labored breathing, or extreme fatigue
- Eye swelling, squinting, or sudden changes in vision
A professional exam can help rule out infections, injuries, or underlying conditions. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Pet Grooming Tips That Support Eye and Respiratory Health
Let’s be honest, your dog probably doesn’t care about looking shiny and your cat thinks they’re always camera-ready. But regular grooming? It keeps allergens, dirt, and parasites in check and gives you a chance to notice if something looks weird.
A few quick tips:
- Brush long-haired pets 2–3 times per week; short-haired pets once a week
- Bathe once a month or as needed using a gentle, pet-specific shampoo
- Check their ears, eyes, nails, and paws while you groom
- Wash bedding, toys, and food bowls regularly to reduce airborne irritants
Looking for a shampoo that’s pet-safe and planet-friendly? Bella Bars are SLS-free, plastic-free shampoo bars made just for pets that are easy to use, gentle on skin, and come in four fun scents like strawberry, mango, blueberry and sweet orange.
Support Eye and Respiratory Health Every Day
When it comes to your pet’s eye and respiratory health, small habits make a big impact. A clean environment, regular grooming, and a little plant-based support can go a long way toward keeping them comfortable, playful, and thriving.
You don’t have to wait for problems to start. Daily care with the right tools can help you stay ahead of common issues. Whether it’s supporting clear eyes, healthy lungs, or just keeping the sneeze count low, you’ve got options that are easy to use and made with your pet’s wellness in mind.
