To perform a thorough eye exam, the vet may need to dilate your horse’s eyes.
Apply an ointment 2 to 6 times a day, as recommended by the vet. Run the ointment over the top of the eyelid to make sure it cleans the whole eye. Apply eye drops (like atropine) by pulling up on the skin above the eye to widen the opening. Prepare the ointment by squeezing a small amount to the end of the tube. Approach the horse’s eye from behind so that he doesn’t see it coming towards him. Use a finger and thumb on one hand to open the eyelid and spot the drop against the inside of the lower lid. You can also drop it onto the surface of the cornea. Let the horse close his eye, which will naturally spread the ointment over the surface.
A corneal ulceration is often caused by grit or a branch rubbing against the surface of the eye. This creates a divot on the surface of the eye that the vet can see during the examination. If not treated, corneal ulcerations may wear down into the eye. [2] X Research source
ERU is an inflammation in the uvea within the eye, which is made up of the iris, the fibers that hold the lens in place (ciliary body), and the lining of the eye. It’s a painful condition which prevents the eye from functioning properly. This keeps the horse from focusing and can make it difficult for him to see. [3] X Research source
Conjunctivitis is a bacterial infection of the surface parts of the eye. This can be hot, itchy, and painful for the horse, creating a lot of discharge from the eye. This discharge can gum the eyes shut, making it more attractive for flies to lay their eggs there. To prevent fly infestation, it’s important to keep the eyes clean. [5] X Research source
Swelling of just one eye or eyelid A red eye or eye with angry blood vessels in what should be the white part of the eye One pupil that’s larger than the other Jumps or lines in the surface of eye, which could indicate a scratch or ulcer Yellow or green discharge (Occasionally, when it’s very dusty the eye may wash dust out of the eye in which case you will see a clear goopy discharge in the inner corner of the eye. This can be normal. ) Squinting or avoiding sunlight An eye that looks red, cloudy or sunken An eye that the horse keeps closed An excessive amount of tear fluid, such that the eye is constantly watering The whites of the eyes are puffy and swollen The surface of the eye doesn’t look clear and shiny but is dull or glazed with white
Be aware that some conditions may require lifelong treatment, like Equine Recurrent Uveitis. The sooner you start caring for your horse’s eye conditions, the better chances he has of recovering or living comfortably. [7] X Trustworthy Source American Association of Equine Practitioners National organization with a mission of improving the health and welfare of horses and providing resources to people who work with them. Go to source
Some conditions such as recurrent equine uveitis are aggravated by sunlight and UV, so keeping the eyes protected is important.
Don’t use ointments or medications without your veterinarian’s approval. When it comes to treating your horse’s eyes, the vet is the most knowledgeable person to quickly care for your horse.
