Dry eye disease — clinically known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) — is one of the most common ocular conditions in dogs, affecting breeds including Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Cocker Spaniels, and Yorkshire Terriers. Cats can also develop dry eye, though less frequently. When the tear glands produce insufficient tears, the corneal surface becomes exposed to friction, debris, and oxidative damage — leading to chronic discomfort, discharge, and over time, corneal scarring that can impair vision. Regular lubrication is a cornerstone of dry eye management.
Optixcare Eye Lube from Aventix is a sterile carbomer gel lubricant specifically formulated for veterinary use in dogs, cats, and horses. The active lubricant is carbomer, a high-molecular-weight polymer that provides exceptional corneal retention — it forms a thin, clear gel layer on the ocular surface that converts to a clear, water-like suspension on contact with tears, providing sustained moisture rather than a brief liquid splash that quickly drains away.
Unlike petroleum-based eye ointments (which were historically used in veterinary practice), Optixcare Eye Lube has a water base, making it non-greasy, non-blurring, and far more comfortable for the animal. Because of its gel viscosity and excellent retention properties, only 1–2 drops per application are needed, making the 20g tube highly economical for long-term management. Ingredients include sterile water, sorbitol, carbomer, sodium hydroxide, preserved with disodium EDTA and cetrimide.
Key Ingredients:
Directions for Use:
Dry eyes: Instill 1–2 drops in both eyes, 2–4 times daily or as often as recommended by your veterinarian. Anesthesia eye protection: Instill 1–2 drops onto the corneal surface before procedures. Contents are sterile until cap is removed. Avoid touching tip to eye or other surfaces.
Supplement Advisor's Note:
Carbomer-based gels are preferred over saline drops for genuine dry eye management because their viscosity provides meaningful corneal residency time — a single drop can lubricate the eye for 30–60 minutes, whereas saline drops drain within minutes. For dogs on cyclosporine eye drops (the standard prescription treatment for KCS), Optixcare Eye Lube is a compatible companion product used between cyclosporine doses to provide additional comfort. Note that if your pet's eye discharge is yellow-green rather than clear, this indicates possible infection and requires veterinary assessment before starting lubricant therapy.
Q: How is this different from Optixcare Eye Lube Plus?
A: Optixcare Eye Lube Plus contains both carbomer AND hyaluronic acid (hyaluron), providing a dual-polymer system with enhanced and longer-lasting lubrication. Eye Lube (this product) contains carbomer alone and is the more economical option for maintenance lubrication.
Q: Is this safe to use alongside prescription cyclosporine eye drops?
A: Yes. Allow a few minutes between applying the lubricant and prescription drops to avoid diluting the medication.
Q: How long does a 20g tube last?
A: At 1–2 drops per eye, 2–4 times daily for one dog, a 20g tube typically lasts several weeks to months depending on frequency of use.
Q: Is this available without a prescription?
A: Yes, Optixcare Eye Lube is available without a prescription.
