A Shih Tzu Snapping at Invisible Flies
by A reader
This started about 2 or 3 days after trimming the fur around her face, but we have checked and there does not appear to be any stray hairs that would be interfering with her vision.
Does this behavior sound like it could be the symptom of an eye problem?
We have made an appointment with the vet, but thaey can't see her until Monday.
Thank you.
Snapping at the air as if biting at bugs that aren't there is called fly-biting or fly-snapping. Eye problems, like floaters in the eye, can rarely cause it, but more often it is a type of focal seizure, a sign of nausea or digestive discomfort, or a compulsive behavior. Some recent research has found that many dogs that fly-bite have an underlying stomach or intestinal problem, and they improve when it's treated.
Keeping your vet appointment is a good plan. Take a short video of an episode on your phone, since it often happens in the vet's office less than at home. Note how long it lasts, whether she responds to her name during it, and whether she licks her lips, swallows a lot or eats grass, which can suggest nausea.
Go to an emergency vet if she has a seizure with falling or paddling, the episodes get much longer or closer together, or she seems confused afterwards. Stray hairs near the eyes from trimming usually cause pawing or squinting, not air-snapping.
See neurological problems in dogs.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
