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One of the most common eye problems diagnosed in horses is corneal ulceration. This injury to the outer tissue layer of the eye can be caused by a scratch. It can also result from a foreign object, such as a grass seed or piece of hay, getting inside the eyelid and rubbing against the cornea.

Signs of a corneal ulcer might include squinting, tearing, sensitivity to light, and reluctance by the horse to having the eye touched or examined. Depending on how long ago the injury occurred, there may be a cloudy discharge from the eye. A veterinarian may use an eye stain to show irritated areas and determine the extent of the injury. If the horse resists having the eye checked, a mild sedative may be necessary.

With prompt treatment, mild scratches or ulcers that affect only the outer tissues will heal fairly quickly. The veterinarian may prescribe an antibiotic ointment that the owner can apply several times a day, and a fly mask or stall rest may be suggested if daylight seems to bother the horse.

In deeper injuries that damage the inner tissues, or in the case of a mild injury that has been neglected, treatment may be more complicated. To avoid infection and possible blindness, owners should have a veterinarian examine horses that show signs of an eye injury. If surgery or another procedure is called for, such as installing an indwelling catheter to deliver medication, healing will proceed more smoothly if the problem is diagnosed as soon as possible and treatment is begun promptly.

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