Veterinary Ophthalmology in Porto
A red, watering or closed eye needs to be seen quickly
The eye is the organ where time counts for most. A corneal ulcer can worsen within days, and a rise in pressure inside the eye can cost an animal its sight in a couple of days. So an eye that is red, closed, watering or looking cloudy should be seen without waiting to find out whether it settles on its own.
- Ophthalmic examination
- Tests run the same day
- Acute cases seen quickly
Book an appointment
Booking is done online through Digitail, in under two minutes.
- Full examination of both eyes
- Fluorescein and tear production tests
- Plan and costs explained before going ahead
Select “General Consultation” in the form.
Book a general consultation and mention that it is an eye problem. That is the appointment where we assess the situation and, if needed, refer you on to ophthalmology. If the eye is closed or the problem came on suddenly, call 223 239 804.
- Years of experience
- 15Years of experience
- Satisfied clients
- +3500Satisfied clients
- Happy pets
- +4200Happy pets
With eyes, time counts
Unlike most complaints, an eye problem rarely improves after a week of waiting. Ulcers and rises in pressure are assessed in days, not weeks.
Tests run during the consultation
Fluorescein to detect ulcers on the cornea, and a tear production test to rule out dry eye. Both are quick, painless and give an answer within the consultation itself.
Never use old eye drops
The drops that worked last time can make the current problem worse. Some contain corticosteroids, which on an ulcer delay healing and can deepen the lesion.
What happens at an eye consultation
We always assess both eyes, even when the complaint concerns only one. Comparing them is one of the most useful diagnostic tools we have.
History of the problem
When it appeared, whether it came on suddenly or gradually, whether there was any injury or contact with other animals, whether the animal rubs its face, and what has already been applied.
Examination of the structures of the eye
We look at the eyelids, conjunctiva, cornea, iris and lens, and assess the pupillary reflexes. Many problems are in the eyelids or the lashes rather than in the eye itself.
Fluorescein test
A dye applied to the surface of the eye that stains any area where the cornea is damaged. It is the test that confirms or rules out an ulcer, and it takes seconds.
Tear production and pressure
Where dry eye is suspected, we measure tear production. Where there are signs of glaucoma, we measure the pressure inside the eye, because that is where sight is won or lost.
Treatment and a booked review
With ulcers the review is compulsory and comes soon, to confirm the eye is healing. If it is not, we change the approach before the lesion progresses.
Signs that should not wait
With any of these signs, do not use eye drops you have at home. Book the consultation.
- An eye held closed or half closed, especially if it appeared overnight
- Redness that does not clear within 24 hours
- Constant watering, or a yellowish discharge
- A dull, bluish or whitish area on the surface of the eye
- The animal rubs its face on the furniture or with a paw
- Sensitivity to light, or seeking out dark places
- Bumping into objects, hesitating in low light or on the stairs
- A visible change in the size or the shape of the pupil
Veterinary Team
An experienced team led by Dr. Ivo Malta and Dr. Marta Barros, dedicated to animal wellbeing.
We care for every patient closely and individually, focused on prevention and careful diagnosis.
We combine clinical knowledge with an empathetic approach, always with transparency and trust.
What pet owners say
Real reviews left on Google by people who have been here.
Average rating
Google Reviews
“I think the team was great, it was her first bath and she can get very excited. She seemed happy after the bath and the team took great care for her.”
M W (Edgy Hamster)
April 2026
“Muito atenciosos e educados. Todos foram excepcionais, principalmente a menina que me atendeu na recepção, e a veterinária. O cuidado com a minha gatinha, sempre muito pacientes e prestativos, disseram-me toda a informação que eu precisava de saber.”
Karen Farias
March 2026
“Excelentes profissionais e a clínica é muito tranquila. Sem tempos de espera. Conseguem aliar o rigor científico ao cuidado afectuoso. Agradeço a toda a equipa que atendeu a Ba e a Bel no sábado. Chegaram tranquilas a casa e estiveram sem nenhuma queixa. Apreciei tudo e recomendo.”
Cristina de O. Alves
January 2026
Frequently asked questions
Let us clear everything up, openly
Can I book an ophthalmology consultation directly?
No. Book a general consultation and mention that it is an eye problem. That is the appointment where we assess the situation and, if needed, refer you on to ophthalmology. If the eye has suddenly closed, call 223 239 804 rather than waiting for an online booking.
Can I use the eye drops left over from last time?
We would advise against it. Many eye drops contain corticosteroids and, if there is an ulcer on the cornea, they delay healing and can deepen the lesion. Without knowing what is behind the red eye, the same drops can just as easily help or make things worse.
How long can I wait?
Less than with other complaints. A red eye that has not improved within 24 hours, or any eye the animal keeps closed, should be seen in the following days. Sudden loss of sight and a very painful eye are reasons to call the same day.
My dog's eyes water all the time. Is that normal for the breed?
Some flat-faced breeds with prominent eyes water more for anatomical reasons, but that does not make it harmless. It is worth assessing, because many of these breeds also have poorly positioned lashes or a chronically exposed cornea.
Do the tests hurt?
No. Fluorescein and the tear production test are quick and well tolerated. When the eye is very sore, we apply a local anaesthetic before examining, so we can assess it without causing discomfort.
The eye went cloudy suddenly. Is it a cataract?
It might be, but there are other causes with a very different urgency, such as corneal oedema from glaucoma. They are told apart on examination, and the distinction matters: one is monitored, the other is treated quickly.
Do you perform eye surgery?
We assess and medically treat most cases, and we carry out eyelid procedures. Situations that require specialised intraocular surgery are referred, and in that case we explain why and where to.
My cat has a watering eye and is sneezing. Are they related?
Often yes. In cats, particularly younger ones, eye and respiratory signs frequently appear together. If your cat finds the trip to the vet stressful, take a look at our feline medicine consultation as well.
Select “General Consultation” in the form.
Our Pet Friendly Clinic in Porto
Book your pet's appointment
Every pet is different: we assess the case before setting a plan, and costs are explained before going ahead.
Select “General Consultation” in the form.