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My dog's eyelid is suddenly swollen. What can I do until the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | spayed | 8.6 lbs

My chihuahuas lower eyelid became massively swollen all of a sudden in a matter of hours. She's shaking and seems to be uncomfortable, but is not itching it. No discharge or anything like that, just massive swelling. How can I treat it until the vet opens in the morning?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

Veterinarian

Published on April 29th, 2020

I suspect it may be a rapidly growing abscess. Tooth root abscesses usually result in swelling just below the eye. Please, clean the skin and the eye with boiled, warm water and cotton buds and make sure Yoda is not scratching or rubbing the face. Then take her to your local vets as soon as they open in the morning. If she looking very unwell or she is in a lot of pain, call your local emergency service tonight.

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 7th, 2018

    The most common cause for a swelling in that location (under the eye) is a tooth root abscess. I suggest you get Jockey to your vet for an exam. This is not something that will resolve on it's own. ( https://www.petcoach.co/article/infections-of-the-4th-premolar-carnassial-tooth/ ) Hope this helps. Best wishes.

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