Vet Tears HA — Advanced Hyaluronic Acid Ocular Lubricant for Dogs & Cats
Vet Tears HA is a multi-component viscoelastic ophthalmic lubricant formulated with sodium hyaluronate, adaptive guar technology and rapid-acting demulcents to restore tear-film stability, enhance corneal hydration and support epithelial healing in canine and feline patients. Designed for sustained ocular surface protection in chronic dry eye conditions and post-operative recovery.
Viscoelastic HA + HP Guar matrix ensures extended lubrication
Supports epithelial regeneration and cell migration
Restores tear-film stability after cherry eye surgery
Vanishing preservative minimises surface irritation
Ideal for long-term KCS and dry eye management
Primary Indications
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) — chronic and recurrent
- Exposure and pigmentary keratitis
- Corneal surface irritation and epithelial defects
- Post-operative ocular lubrication
- Adjunct therapy with cyclosporine or tacrolimus
Post–Third Eyelid Surgery Support
The nictitating membrane gland contributes approximately 30–50% of basal tear production in dogs. Even gland-preserving surgeries may temporarily reduce tear secretion.
Vet Tears HA supports recovery by:
- Restoring hydration and tear-film stability
- Reducing mechanical stress on healing epithelium
- Improving post-operative comfort
- Maintaining compatibility with topical medications
Clinical Overview & Rationale
Vet Tears HA is developed to replicate and reinforce natural tear-film dynamics through a synergistic three-layer lubrication system, providing immediate hydration and prolonged ocular surface protection.
🔬 How Vet Tears HA Works
Sodium Hyaluronate (Viscoelastic Polymer)
- Mechanism: Mucoadhesive properties allow HA to bind to ocular surface, forming a protective layer
- Viscoelastic effect: High molecular weight creates viscous, gel-like tear film that resists drainage
- Cell migration: Promotes corneal epithelial cell migration across defects, accelerating healing
- Hydration: Each HA molecule binds up to 1000x its weight in water, providing superior hydration
- Clinical benefit: Extended tear retention time (up to 4 hours) reduces dosing frequency
Polyethylene Glycol 400 & Propylene Glycol (Demulcents)
- Mechanism: Rapid-acting humectants that attract and retain moisture on ocular surface
- Lubrication: Reduce friction between eyelid and cornea during blinking
- Immediate effect: Provide instant comfort and hydration upon instillation
- Synergistic action: Work with HA to create multi-layer protection
- Clinical benefit: Fast symptom relief while HA establishes long-term protection
Hydroxypropyl Guar (HP Guar Adaptive Technology)
- Mechanism: Ionic cross-linking occurs when HP Guar contacts tear electrolytes (Na+, K+)
- Gel formation: Transforms from liquid to soft gel matrix on ocular surface
- Extended residence: Gel structure prolongs contact time between doses
- Non-blurring: Maintains clarity of vision while providing lubrication
- Clinical benefit: Bridges the gap between HA's long-term and demulcents' immediate effects
🛡️ Vanishing Preservative Technology
Sodium oxychloro complex (stabilized oxychloro acid) provides antimicrobial protection in multi-dose packaging while rapidly decomposing upon contact with the ocular surface.
- Preservative function: Maintains sterility in the bottle between uses
- Rapid breakdown: Converts to water (H₂O), oxygen (O₂), and sodium chloride (NaCl) within seconds
- Avoids BAK toxicity: Benzalkonium chloride can damage epithelial cells, reduce goblet cell density, and delay healing
- Safe for chronic use: Suitable for long-term KCS management without cumulative preservative toxicity
- Clinical benefit: Multi-dose convenience without preservative-related side effects
💊 Dosing & Administration Protocols
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) Management:
- Mild KCS (Schirmer 10-15mm): 1 drop per eye, 2-3 times daily
- Moderate KCS (Schirmer 5-9mm): 1 drop per eye, 4-5 times daily
- Severe KCS (Schirmer <5mm): 1 drop per eye, 6 times daily (every 2-3 hours while awake)
- Maintenance: Adjust frequency based on Schirmer tear test results and clinical response
- Combine with: Immunomodulators (cyclosporine/tacrolimus) for optimal long-term management
Post-Third Eyelid (Cherry Eye) Surgery:
- Week 1 post-op: 1 drop per eye every 2-3 hours while awake (6-8x daily)
- Week 2-4: 1 drop per eye 4-6 times daily
- Week 4-8: Taper to 3-4 times daily based on tear production recovery
- Long-term: Continue 2-3 times daily if Schirmer remains below normal
- Monitor: Perform Schirmer tear test at 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months post-surgery
Post-Keratitis / Corneal Healing:
- Active healing phase: 1 drop per eye 4-6 times daily
- Epithelial defect present: May increase to hourly if severe dryness
- After epithelial closure: Taper to 3-4 times daily for 1-2 weeks
- Maintenance: Continue 2-3 times daily if underlying dry eye persists
Post-Cataract Surgery (Adjunct to FurrMoxi LP):
- Day 0-7: 1 drop per eye 4 times daily (wait 10 minutes after FurrMoxi LP)
- Week 2-4: 1 drop per eye 3-4 times daily
- Long-term: Continue 2-3 times daily as needed for comfort
- Sequence: Apply medicated drops (FurrMoxi LP) first, wait 5-10 minutes, then apply Vet Tears HA
⚕️ Administration Guidelines
- Instillation technique: Tilt head back slightly, pull lower eyelid down, apply drop to lower fornix
- Avoid touching dropper tip to eye, eyelid, or any surface
- Multiple medications: Wait 5-10 minutes between different eye drops
- Order of application: Apply medicated drops first, lubricants last
- Store at room temperature (15-25°C), avoid freezing
- Shelf life after opening: Use within 90 days of first opening
- Contact lenses: Remove lenses before instillation, wait 15 minutes before reinserting
⚕️ Safety, Monitoring & Precautions
✅ Safety Profile:
- No absolute contraindications: Vet Tears HA is generally safe for all patients
- Preservative-safe formula: Vanishing preservative suitable for long-term use
- Compatible with medications: Can be used alongside antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, immunomodulators
- All ages: Safe for puppies, kittens, adults, and geriatric patients
⚠️ Precautions:
- Hypersensitivity: Discontinue if signs of allergic reaction occur (rare)
- Active infection: While not contraindicated, ensure appropriate antimicrobial therapy if infection present
- Concurrent medications: Apply medicated drops before lubricants to ensure therapeutic effect
- Post-operative use: Follow surgeon's instructions regarding timing and frequency
- Contamination prevention: Do not share bottles between patients
📊 Monitoring Parameters:
- Schirmer tear test: Baseline and follow-up every 2-4 weeks for KCS patients
- Fluorescein staining: Monitor corneal epithelial healing if ulceration present
- Clinical signs: Assess blepharospasm, epiphora, discharge, hyperemia
- Patient comfort: Monitor for squinting, rubbing, photophobia
- Response to therapy: Improvement expected within 1-2 weeks; reassess if no progress
⚠️ Potential Adverse Effects
Generally very well-tolerated. Rarely:
- Transient mild stinging or discomfort upon instillation (resolves quickly)
- Temporary blurred vision immediately after application (lasts 1-2 minutes)
- Hypersensitivity reaction (extremely rare; discontinue if occurs)
- Buildup of discharge if overused (reduce frequency if noted)
Note: If adverse effects persist or worsen, discontinue use and consult veterinarian.
Composition & Pack
- Sodium Hyaluronate
- Polyethylene Glycol 400
- Propylene Glycol
- Hydroxypropyl Guar
- Sodium Oxychloro Complex (vanishing preservative)
Pack size: 10 mL multi-dose bottle
Key Benefits Summary
- Prolonged ocular surface retention
- Enhanced corneal hydration and healing support
- Reduced preservative-related irritation
- Suitable for frequent and chronic use
- Improved patient comfort and compliance
🔗 Clinical Integration & Combination Therapy
Often Used With:
FurrMoxi LP — For post-operative anti-infective and anti-inflammatory cover
In post-surgical cases (cataract, cherry eye), FurrMoxi LP provides antimicrobial prophylaxis and inflammation control, while Vet Tears HA supports tear film stability and epithelial healing. Apply FurrMoxi LP first, wait 5-10 minutes, then apply Vet Tears HA.
Sample Combination Protocol:
Chronic KCS with Immunomodulator:
- Morning (8 AM): Cyclosporine 0.2% → Wait 10 min → Vet Tears HA
- Midday (12 PM): Vet Tears HA only
- Afternoon (4 PM): Vet Tears HA only
- Evening (8 PM): Cyclosporine 0.2% → Wait 10 min → Vet Tears HA
- Bedtime (11 PM): Vet Tears HA only
Note: This 5x daily regimen maintains consistent lubrication while allowing cyclosporine to exert therapeutic effect. Adjust based on Schirmer test results.
Expected Outcomes & Timeline:
- Immediate (minutes): Improved comfort, reduced blepharospasm
- 1-3 days: Decreased ocular discharge, less redness
- 1-2 weeks: Improved corneal clarity, reduced pigmentation (if present)
- 4-8 weeks: Measurable improvement in Schirmer tear test (when combined with immunomodulator)
- If no improvement by 2 weeks: Re-evaluate diagnosis, consider underlying causes, adjust therapy
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How long can Vet Tears HA be used safely?
Vet Tears HA is designed for long-term, chronic use. The vanishing preservative technology makes it safe for daily use for months to years in KCS patients. Many patients require lifelong therapy, and Vet Tears HA's formulation supports this without cumulative toxicity.
Can Vet Tears HA be used in cats?
Yes, Vet Tears HA is formulated for both dogs and cats. Cats may be more sensitive to preservatives, making the vanishing preservative technology particularly beneficial. Dosing is the same as for dogs, adjusted based on severity of dry eye.
What's the difference between Vet Tears HA and basic artificial tears?
Vet Tears HA contains sodium hyaluronate (a viscoelastic polymer) plus HP Guar technology, providing significantly longer retention time (up to 4 hours) compared to basic tears (30-60 minutes). It also promotes epithelial healing, not just lubrication. The three-layer system (HA + demulcents + HP Guar) provides immediate comfort plus long-lasting protection.
My patient's eyes look worse after starting Vet Tears HA. What should I do?
While rare, this could indicate: (1) hypersensitivity reaction - discontinue and try preservative-free single-dose vials; (2) underlying infection - ensure appropriate antimicrobial coverage; (3) overuse - reduce frequency. If worsening persists beyond 48 hours, re-evaluate diagnosis and consider referral to veterinary ophthalmologist.
How should Vet Tears HA be stored?
Store at room temperature (15-25°C). Do not freeze. Keep bottle tightly closed when not in use. Discard 90 days after first opening to ensure sterility and efficacy. Avoid storing in direct sunlight or high heat (such as in a car).
Can Vet Tears HA replace cyclosporine for KCS?
No. Vet Tears HA provides symptomatic relief and surface protection, but does not address the underlying immune-mediated destruction of lacrimal tissue in most KCS cases. For optimal management, combine Vet Tears HA (lubricant) with immunomodulators like cyclosporine or tacrolimus (disease-modifying agents). Vet Tears HA enhances comfort and healing while immunomodulators work to restore natural tear production.
📚 References & Evidence Base
- Gelatt KN, Gilger BC. Veterinary Ophthalmology, 6th ed. Wiley-Blackwell; 2021. [Authoritative veterinary ophthalmology reference text]
- Gomes JAP, et al. Sodium hyaluronate (hyaluronic acid) promotes migration of human corneal epithelial cells in vitro. Br J Ophthalmol. 2004;88(6):821-825. PMC1772195 → [Clinical evidence for HA promoting corneal epithelial healing]
- Williams DL. Immunopathogenesis of keratoconjunctivitis sicca in the dog. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2008;38(2):251-268. PMID: 18299007 → [Comprehensive review of canine KCS pathophysiology and management]
- Aragona P, et al. Sodium hyaluronate eye drops of different osmolarity for the treatment of dry eye in Sjögren's syndrome patients. Br J Ophthalmol. 2002;86(8):879-884. PMC1771231 → [Clinical trial demonstrating HA efficacy in severe dry eye]
- Simmons PA, et al. Efficacy and safety of two guar-based lubricant eye drops in subjects with dry eye. Clin Ophthalmol. 2015;9:87-95. PMC4295299 → [Evidence for HP Guar technology in prolonging tear retention]
- Baudouin C, et al. Preservatives in eyedrops: The good, the bad and the ugly. Prog Retin Eye Res. 2010;29(4):312-334. PMID: 20302969 → [Comprehensive review of preservative toxicity and benefits of preservative-free formulations]
- Rezaei M, et al. Third eyelid gland removal in dogs: Short- and long-term effects on tear production. Veterinarski Arhiv. 2019;89(4):569-580. PDF Link → [Study on third eyelid gland contribution to tear production (30-50%)]
- Arzeno G, et al. The influence of hyaluronic acid on corneal wound healing. Arch Ophthalmol. 1982;100(4):642-645. DOI Link → [Early research demonstrating HA's role in corneal epithelial healing]
- Lopes NLV, et al. Ocular surface evaluation after substitution of topical antiglaucoma medications preserved with benzalkonium chloride to preservative-free eyedrops. Arq Bras Oftalmol. 2019;82(4):310-315. PMC6433198 → [Clinical evidence for benefits of preservative-free formulations on ocular surface health]
- Goldstein MH, et al. Ocular benzalkonium chloride exposure: problems and solutions. Eye (Lond). 2022;36(2):361-368. PMID: 34262161 → [Review of BAK toxicity mechanisms and advantages of alternative preservatives]
- Hendrix DVH, et al. Diseases and surgery of the canine conjunctiva and nictitating membrane. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2015;45(4):797-813. PMID: 25956218 → [Veterinary guidance on third-eyelid surgery and post-operative management]
- Lemp MA, et al. Factors affecting tear film breakup in normal eyes. Arch Ophthalmol. 1973;89(2):103-105. [Foundational research on tear film stability and breakup time]
- Rolando M, Valente C. Establishing the tolerability and performance of tamarind seed polysaccharide (TSP) in treating dry eye syndrome: results of a clinical study. BMC Ophthalmol. 2007;7:5. PMC1851018 → [Research on mucoadhesive polymers for prolonged ocular retention]
- Hamano T, et al. Sodium hyaluronate eyedrops enhance tear film stability. Jpn J Ophthalmol. 1996;40(1):62-65. [Study demonstrating HA's effect on tear film breakup time]
- Snibson GR, et al. Ocular surface residence times of artificial tear solutions. Cornea. 1992;11(4):288-293. PMID: 1424644 → [Comparison of retention times for different lubricant formulations]
Need additional clinical evidence or full bibliography? Request our complete reference library →
For veterinary professional use only. Always follow current labelling and clinical judgement.
Vet Tears HA
10 mL Multi-Dose Bottle
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