Equine Ophthalmology
At Sunrise Equine, we provide comprehensive ophthalmic care for horses, addressing a wide range of eye conditions to protect vision, comfort, and overall health.
Ophthalmic Exam
A thorough eye examination allows our veterinarians to assess the health of your horse’s eyes.
During the exam, we may:
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Stain the cornea to detect ulcers or scratches.
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Use a specialized scope and light (ophthalmoscope) to examine the back of the eye.
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Measure intraocular pressure, which helps detect and manage conditions like glaucoma and uveitis.
Common Eye Conditions
Horses can develop a variety of ocular issues, including:
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Corneal ulcers or scratches
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Equine Recurrent Uveitis (Moon Blindness)
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Conjunctivitis
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Cataracts
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Glaucoma
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Immune Mediated Conditions
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Other congenital or acquired ocular disorders
Treatment Options
We offer a range of treatments depending on the condition, including:
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Topical and systemic medications to control inflammation, infection, or pain
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Subpalpebral Lavage (SPL) lines for sustained delivery of medications in certain cases where intensive care is warranted.
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Referral to an equine ophthalmology specialist when advanced surgical or specialized care is needed
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Enucleations able to be performed in clinic for severe injury or chronic ocular disease that lacks response to treatment
Why Timely Ophthalmic Care Matters
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Eye injuries and infections can progress quickly and threaten vision.
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Early detection and treatment of conditions like ulcers or glaucoma can prevent long-term damage.
At Sunrise Equine, we combine modern diagnostic tools, advanced treatment options, and collaboration with specialists to ensure your horse’s eyes receive the highest standard of care.
Faqs
Frequently Asked Questions About Equine Ophthalmology
What types of eye problems can affect horses?
Horses can develop several eye conditions, including corneal ulcers, conjunctivitis, cataracts, glaucoma, and Equine Recurrent Uveitis (moon blindness). Because eye conditions can worsen quickly, prompt evaluation by a veterinarian is important to protect your horse’s vision and comfort.
What happens during an equine eye examination?
During an ophthalmic exam, the veterinarian carefully evaluates the horse’s eye structures using specialized tools. This may include staining the cornea to detect ulcers, using an ophthalmoscope to examine the inside of the eye, and measuring intraocular pressure to check for conditions like glaucoma or uveitis.
What signs indicate my horse may have an eye problem?
Signs of eye problems in horses may include excessive tearing, squinting, swelling, redness, cloudiness, sensitivity to light, or discharge from the eye. If you notice any of these symptoms, veterinary attention should be sought promptly.
How are eye conditions in horses treated?
Treatment depends on the specific condition but may include topical medications, oral medications, anti-inflammatory treatments, or specialized therapies such as subpalpebral lavage systems to deliver medication directly to the eye.
Why is quick treatment important for eye injuries in horses?
Eye injuries and infections can progress rapidly and may lead to vision loss if left untreated. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment significantly improve the chances of protecting your horse’s vision and preventing long-term damage.