Equine Ophthalmology: Protecting Your Horse's Vision

Important: If your horse is squinting, tearing excessively, or has a cloudy or painful eye, please call Red Oak Animal Hospital immediately! Eye injuries in horses can progress from minor to vision-threatening in a matter of hours. Prompt veterinary intervention is the key to a successful recovery.

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Our Ophthalmic Services We provide comprehensive care for the equine eye, ranging from routine wellness checks to the management of complex diseases. Our services include:
  • Routine Ophthalmic Exams: Thorough evaluations of the external and internal structures of the eye to detect early signs of cataracts, uveitis (moon blindness), or tumors.
  • Corneal Ulcer Treatments: Ulcers (scratches on the surface of the eye) are common and painful. We utilize specialized staining to diagnose the depth and type of ulcer to provide targeted antibiotic or antifungal therapy.
  • Stromal Abscess Management: For infections trapped within the layers of the cornea, we provide intensive medical management to resolve the infection and minimize scarring.
  • Subpalpebral Lavage (SPL) System Placement: For horses requiring frequent medication (often every 2–4 hours), we can place an SPL system. This consists of a small, soft tube placed under the eyelid that allows you to deliver medication safely and easily without touching the horse’s painful eye.
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Why Early Detection Matters

Because horses are “flight” animals, their vision is their primary sense for navigating their environment. Whether it’s an eyelid laceration or a case of Equine Recurrent Uveitis (ERU), our goal is to alleviate pain quickly and preserve your horse’s sight and performance career.

Equine Eye Pain Checklist If you notice any of the following, consider it an emergency and call us immediately:
  • Squinting or Holding the Eye Shut: This is the most common sign of significant pain.
  • Excessive Tearing: Clear tearing or thick, yellow/green discharge.
  • Cloudiness or Blue Tint: Any change in the clarity of the cornea.
  • Redness: Inflammation of the “whites” of the eyes or the eyelids.
  • Swelling: Bulging eyelids or swelling around the eye socket.
  • Sensitivity to Light: The horse turns away from the sun or stays in the back of the stall.
  • Change in Pupil Size: One pupil looks different than the other.
Do not apply any leftover eye ointments without a vet's exam. If the eye has an ulcer, certain medications (like steroids) can cause the cornea to melt. A close-up of a black and white horse wearing a halter labeled "WALTER," standing outdoors on grass with sunlight casting shadows on its body.