Just like humans, eye care is incredibly important for canine companions, and they can experience a number of similar ocular issues that can jeopardize their overall health. Today, we venture into the fascinating world of corneal ulcers and erosions, a topic that might sound complex, but fret not, for we're here to guide you with expertise and a touch of charm. Join us as we shed light on these eye issues that can affect our furry companions.
Decoding the Corneal Erosion: When the Eye Calls for Attention
Ah, the mysterious "red eye" – a classic challenge that veterinarians face. When your pet's eye is red, it's an obvious sign of distress. They might squint or even rub their face, while the inner lining of their eyelids, the conjunctiva, turns an angry shade of red and may swell. Clearly, when the eye hurts, veterinary care is in demand.
The Culprit Behind the Red Eye: Corneal Erosion
Among the various reasons for sudden eye discomfort, one of the most common is a scratch or scrape on the surface of the eye. Picture the eye's clear outer layer – that's the cornea, and being in the front line, it's prone to scrapes and tears. Common triggers for corneal erosions include:
- Rough contact with plants, thorns, or bushes
- Scratches from another animal (beware of cat scratches, as they can be especially serious, healing quickly and trapping infection inside the eye)
- Self-trauma (unintentional scratches may occur when pets rub or scratch painful ears or other eye issues)
- Chemical irritation (like getting shampoo in the eye during bath time)
- Foreign body injury (plant material stuck under an eyelid can scrape the cornea)
To confirm the presence of an ulcer or erosion, a special fluorescent stain is used. Normally, water glides smoothly off the cornea like rain on a windshield. However, if the cornea is damaged, the stain sticks to the affected area, appearing bright green under a black light.
Unraveling the Treatment: Antibiotics and Pain Relief
Fear not, for routine corneal ulcers and erosions usually heal well. Since the damaged cornea is vulnerable to infection (or may already be infected, as indicated by a purulent discharge), a topical antibiotic is necessary. It's ideal to use it four times a day, but we understand that it might not be easy for every pet owner to manage. So, three times a day is more practical, but for optimal sterilization, four times is recommended. Your vet might prescribe drops or ointment, depending on your preference.
The second part of treatment involves pain relief: Atropine 1% drops or ointment. Atropine temporarily paralyzes the pupil's ability to constrict, easing pain caused by pupil spasms. Pupillary dilation is expected with this medication, and your pet may be sensitive to bright sunlight while using it. Due to the tear duct connection to the nose and mouth, your pet might taste the medications, and Atropine is known for its bitter taste. Dogs usually tolerate this well, but cats might drool in an effort to rid their mouths of the taste. All perfectly normal reactions!
Protective Measures: Elizabethan Collar and Re-Check
To prevent self-trauma, your pet might need an Elizabethan Collar – that's the special cone-shaped collar. If you suspect your pet might rub their eye, request one, and ensure they wear it throughout treatment.
After one week of therapy, it's crucial to have the eye re-stained. Most ulcers heal by then, but some may need an additional week. If the ulcer persists after two weeks, it's no longer routine, and further measures, possibly involving a veterinary ophthalmologist, may be necessary. Prompt
re-checks are vital if there's any doubt about the healing progress.
Special Cases: Indolent Ulcers, Melting Ulcers, and Descemetoceles
Some ulcers form with a small lip on the edge, obstructing healing. Various techniques can remedy this, including rubbing the lip away, using hyaluronan or PSGAG eye drops to strengthen the cornea, or performing surgery. A grid keratectomy, where a needle scratches a grid on the cornea, has gained popularity. Poodles and boxers are known for these ulcers, but any breed can be affected.
Melting ulcers can arise from infection, giving the cornea a gooey appearance. The eye softens and seems to be "melting," posing a risk of perforation. Specialized antimicrobial therapy, including blood-derived serum as eye drops, is often necessary.
Descemetocoeles are ulcers that penetrate through the cornea but stop at the last thin membrane, Descemet's membrane. Surgery is usually needed to protect the eye, with brachycephalic breeds at higher risk due to their prominent eyes.
A Watchful Eye: Observing Healing at Home
Corneal ulcers and erosions typically heal well but stay vigilant for any changes indicating a more serious turn of events. Prevent self-trauma, attend re-checks, and if anything seems amiss, contact your veterinarian.
And there you have it, an illuminating insight into corneal ulcers and erosions in dogs, delivered with professionalism and charm. Keep an eye out for your furry friend's well-being, and remember, your vet is the trusted guide in their health journey.
Don't have a vet in your area yet? We can help you find a local veterinarian.
If you have more questions, the GeniusVets Telehealth platform will give you unlimited access to text and/or video calls with board-certified veterinarians! To learn more click here.