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My dog has an eye infection. Can it cause a brain infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 22 lbs

Can my dog get a brain infection from having an infected eye? My dog (mix breed) is less than one kilo and is 2 months old, she was attacked by another dog and her left eye was out of the socket but now went back in, i took her to the vet and she said the eye is infected, she takes to prevent that. she said she must have a surgery, as she may develop brain infection, is this true? another vet said it would be better to wait for the dog get a bit older/healthier. Who should I trust?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 20th, 2016

Yes, it is true that an eye infection can lead to a brain infection. Meningoencephalitis (inflammation of the brain and meninges) is generally due to an infection of the eye (also the ears or nasal cavity). Given that I can't see Iggy in person, I can't say for sure if she is healthy enough to have surgery at the moment, but if the vet is worried that the infected eye could cause meningoencephalitis, I would recommend having that surgery as soon as the vet feels it's safe.

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