Eyes
Blindness, cataracts, and night blindness occur in some Cockers. Treatment of these serious ailments require the services of a specialist. Watchful care can keep minor problems from becoming big problems.
Most Cockers have a discharge from the eyes. In the light colour  breeds, this can be seen as a staining down the sides of the nose. In healthy eyes, this is limited to a few tear type stains that can be wiped away with a damp cloth. If this discharge builds up, bacteria begins to grow, which can infect the eye. Bimonthly, a wash rag with anti-bacterial soap, or no-tears shampoo, can be used to wash this area. Cleanliness is the best treatment for this condition.
Facial hair on many Cockers must be trimmed away from the eyes. Short hair is easier to keep clean.
Watch out for heavy blinking, soreness, redness, excessive rubbing or an odor. Most times this is a simple infection that can easily be cured.
Many Cockers have "droopy" lids. This is part of that mournful, sad eyed look many people associate with the Cocker. The droopy lower lid allows foreign material to be trapped under the lid and encourages infections.
Eye lashes, an odd occurrence, some lashes will turn, or grow, inward. Left untreated, these cause constant irritation and frequent infections, leading to serious eye problems. Your vet will sedate the pet and cauterize the lashes. This is a minor surgery, with only a mild risk eye infections sometimes happen these can be identified by an increase in discharge, often accompanied by an odor. Symptoms might be redness, "sleepy" eyes, lethargy, rubbing with the paws, or a "sad" reaction in a normally happy pet.
Eye salves often contain steroids, so they must be used sparingly, excessive use of steroids can cause serious eye problems, including blindness.
Ears
Everyone who has had a Cocker knows that ears bear watching. The ear canal is a breeding ground for infection. As ear wax builds up, it gives bacteria a growth medium. Cocker ear flaps are styled with long fur, which weighs them down, keeping air from reaching the ear canals.
Keeping the ears clean will usually prevent infections.An infection can be identified by a strong odor in the ear canal. Your vet will prescribe drops, which are usually applied 2 or 3 times a day until the infection is gone. In a few cases, an antibiotic might also be prescribed. In most cases, an infection can be cleared up in a week or two.An untreated infection can be dangerous  these can cause internal scarring resulting in hearing loss.
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