Corneal ulcers are deep abrasions on the clear outer surface of the eyeball known as the cornea. This sensitive part of the eye acts as a lens and protective cover for the iris and pupil. Corneal ulcers in pets are often very painful, and serious eye problems can develop if the disorder is left untreated.
Causes of Corneal Ulcers
The most common cause of corneal ulceration is direct trauma to the cornea. The disorder can also be caused by factors including infection, exposure to heat or chemicals, foreign bodies in the eye, and certain types of disease. Other causes of corneal ulcers include keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye), and ingrown eyelashes.
Symptoms of Corneal Ulcers
It is important to recognize the symptoms of corneal ulcers so your pet can be correctly diagnosed and treated before extensive eye damage occurs. Please take your pet to the veterinarian for a checkup if you notice any of the following signs and symptoms.
- Watery eyes
- Squinting
- Closed and swollen eyelids
- Redness and inflammation of the eyes
- Cloudiness of the eyes
- Scratching and pawing at the eyes
- Discharge from the eyes
Diagnosis of Corneal Ulcers
Diagnosis of corneal ulcers will begin with a thorough examination of your pet’s eyes. Fluorescein dye will routinely be used to help your veterinarian identify damaged portions of the eye. The dye adheres to defects on the eye allowing damage to be seen more easily.
Although examination of the eyes will often be sufficient for diagnosing corneal ulcers, your veterinarian may choose to perform additional diagnostic tests to assess your pet’s vision and identify the underlying cause of their condition. These may include blood tests, neurological examinations, glaucoma tests, and analysis of eye discharge to discover whether the cause is bacterial or viral. In addition, tests may be performed to measure the production of tears if dry eye is suspected.
Treatment of Corneal Ulcers
Treatment of corneal ulcers will depend on the severity of your pet’s condition and its underlying cause. Deep ulcers may require surgery to remove dead layers of cornea and prevent further deterioration of the eye. Pets with less severe corneal ulcers will usually be prescribed antibiotic eye drops or ointment to prevent infection in the eye.
Your veterinarian will advise you on keeping your pet’s eye clean and protected during the healing process. An Elizabethan collar (also known as an e-collar or cone) is an important part of treatment as it prevents pets from inflicting further damage to the injured eye as it heals. Your veterinarian may also prescribe pain medications or other drugs to treat the underlying cause of the condition. Please follow treatment advice closely to aid your pet’s recovery.
Prevention of Corneal Ulcers
The best way to prevent corneal ulcers is to check your pet’s eyes daily for signs of irritation or injury. Please visit your veterinarian as soon as possible if your pet displays any of the symptoms highlighted in this article so they can be correctly diagnosed and treated.
