Introduction
Corneal ulcers are defects in the outer layers of corneal epithelium and are one of the more common eye disorders in domestic dogs.
How Corneal Ulcers Affect Dogs
Ulceration of the cornea is extremely painful. Corneal ulcers can appear suddenly or slowly. The dog may have a history of recent trauma (hit by car, kicked by horse, etc.). The most universal signs of corneal ulcers are squinting, excessive tearing and rubbing at the eye(s), either with their paws or often by rubbing their face on the ground. Affected dogs may be intolerant of light. Over time, dogs with corneal ulcers can become depressed, lose their appetite and become lethargic. Owners may notice that their dogs’ eyes are red and swollen, that their pupils are smaller than normal or that the eye surface seems cloudy. In more serious cases, corneal ulcers can actually rupture, causing a frightening discharge of pus and/or blood to come out of the eye.
Causes of Corneal Ulcers in Dogs
Corneal ulcers can be caused by a number of things, including trauma, foreign bodies, eyelid conformational abnormalities, tear production disorders and chronic infection. There is no age or gender predisposition to developing corneal ulcers. They are especially common in Boxers and other breeds with short noses, flat faces and broad foreheads. Other risk factors include dogs that are highly excitable, are prone to fighting or are used for hunting or otherwise spend time in heavy brush.
Preventing Corneal Ulcers in Dogs
The best way to prevent corneal ulceration and abrasion is to identify, avoid and/or treat the underlying cause of the condition.
Special Notes
The outlook for dogs with corneal ulcers is good as long as they are diagnosed and treated in a timely manner. One of the biggest complications of corneal ulceration is the increased risk of bacterial infection of the eye, which can cause permanent scarring and even blindness.