What is a corneal ulcer?
The cornea is the transparent front layer of the eyeball. It is made up of several complex layers. An ulcer occurs when there is a disruption to one or more layers of the cornea. An ulcer can be very shallow and only effect minimal layers (ex: a scratch or abrasion). They can also be very deep and can possibly cause the eye to rupture. If the ulcer is deep there is a chance that the animal’s vision may be affected.
What causes an ulcer?
- Trauma
- Chemicals
- Infection
- Tear film abnormalities (ex: dry eye syndrome/KCS, distichiasis or ectopic cilia)
- Exposure Keratopathy (ex: poor closure of eyelids such as breeds with protruding eyes).
How are corneal ulcers treated?
- Superficial, uncomplicated ulcers will require a topical antibiotic ointment and will heal within a few days.
- Deep ulcers may require surgery to prevent the eye from rupturing. The surgery is called a conjunctival flap where a portion of the pink soft tissue that surrounds the eye is placed directly on the ulcer.
What you will have to do at home
- Most commonly antibiotic eye drops are recommended. For tips on how to administer eye medication to your pet check out this website: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?aid=1448
- Wait 5 minutes between different eye drops (to allow the previous medication time to absorb in the eye).
- Always apply ointment AFTER all of the drops have been applied.
- Keep the head collar on at all times, especially at night.
- Wipe away any discharge with a clean cloth.
- Keep your pet as calm as possible.
If you have any other questions or concerns regarding your pet’s eye, please call us at (519) 250-0099.
www.TownandCountryAnimalClinic.ca
