Corneal Ulceration in horses is a painful condition where the cornea's surface is damaged, leading to potential vision loss if untreated.

Corneal Ulceration

Seek veterinary advice before applying any treatment

Ulceration of the equine eye typically involves the loss of the most superficial layer of the eye (cornea). This is frequently due to trauma of some description however may be due to inadequate protection as a result of eyelid dysfunction etc. Secondary infection often establishes subsequently. Eye ulcers are emergencies due to their acute, painful nature and their ability to progress rapidly.

Symptoms

  • Swollen Eye/s
  • Red Eye/s
  • Teary Eye/s
  • Constricted pupil/s
  • Squinting
  • Cloudy Eye/s
  • Irregularity of the cornea
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Increased blinking
  • Spasms
  • Low appetite

Treatment

Treatment of ulcers of the eye is directed at identifying and rectifying any underlying cause of the ulceration, controlling infection and inflammation as well as promoting healing.
Treatment typically starts with a topical antibiotic and possibly a topical antifungal. Because the cornea does not have much of an immune system, it is important to protect the eye from infection while it heals.

Veterinarians may also recommend atropine, a medication that helps to dilate the pupil and decrease the pain. Oral pain medications and anti-inflammatories are also often used to help relieve discomfort.

Prevention

Avoid any kind of trauma to the horse`s eyes and implement a good insect control.

How Happie can help you manage your horse's health

Digital health management offers numerous benefits in modern equine healthcare.

With the Happie Horse App, you can track symptom patterns and body values, such as Temperature, Pulse and Respiration. Allowing you to notice abnormal changes in body and behaviour early on, leading to more successful treatments.

The Happie symptom checker allows you to add all of your horse's abnormal symptoms in order to present potential causes and diseases.

Google Play
App Store

Related articles

Corneal Stromal Abscess in horses is a painful eye infection causing an abscess within the cornea, often requiring treatment.
Ears and Eyes

Corneal Stromal Abcess

Corneal Stromal Abcess Seek veterinary advice before applying any treatment A corneal abscess occurs when bacteria or fungus along with

Corneal Ulceration in horses is a painful condition where the cornea's surface is damaged, leading to potential vision loss if untreated.
Ears and Eyes

Corneal Ulceration

Corneal Ulceration Seek veterinary advice before applying any treatment Ulceration of the equine eye typically involves the loss of the