Eye Problems

Horse Eye Care for Horses in Brisbane, Ipswich and Lockyer Valley

Any injury or infection involving the eye is considered an emergency.

Even a minor injury can quickly lead to permanent loss of sight or even the loss of your horse’s eye if not treated by a veterinarian.

The horse’s eye is a delicate and complex structure, and any damage must be examined by a veterinarian immediately. Without prompt medical attention, the consequences can be disastrous for your horse and seriously affect their future performance.

Causes

There are many factors that can cause pain, inflammation or irritation to your horse’s eyes.

The most common causes are:

Trauma
Foreign bodies
Corneal ulcers
Fly irritation
Inflammation
Neoplasia (cancer)

Signs & Symptoms

Your horse’s eyes should be clear, with a pink and moist eyelid. Tearing should be minimal. A droplet in the corner of each eye is considered normal.

The most common signs of eye problems are:

Tightly closed eyelids
Increased tear production
Discolouration of the cornea or globe
Swelling or redness of the eye
Discharge from the eye (any colour)
Light sensitivity

Treatment Options

Eye problems can worsen rapidly. If your horse’s eye is exhibiting any of the above signs, or is clearly injured or infected, call a veterinarian immediately.

Treatment usually involves:

Cleaning the eye
Prescribing medications
Removal of foreign objects, possibly with surgery

Your Next Steps

If you suspect your horse has an eye injury or infection, call us immediately on (07) 5411 4554 to speak with a qualified veterinarian. For after hours emergency assistance, call 0488 98 98 36.