The dog’s cornea acts like a window, letting light in while also serving as a protective barrier. When the surface gets damaged, it can form an ulcer. A corneal ulcer in a dog is an open sore on the clear, outer layer of the eye.
It’s often a serious condition that requires urgent veterinary care, mainly because the eye is a delicate part of the body. Without immediate attention, this can lead to infection, scarring, and even vision loss.
In this blog, we’ll talk about everything you need to know about corneal ulcers in dogs, right from their causes to the ways we can prevent them.
What Causes Corneal Ulcers in Dogs?
Corneal ulcers are surprisingly common in dogs and can develop from something as simple as a scratch, a small piece of debris, or an underlying eye condition. They can also develop from eye problems in dogs.
Here are the common causes of dog corneal ulcers:
Trauma and Foreign Bodies
Trauma is the number one cause of corneal ulcers in dogs. This can include common occurrences like some scratches from an animal, an object poking the eyes, or even when dogs rub their faces with paws or furniture.
The cornea is very delicate, meaning even the most minor abrasions can damage it. Foreign objects such as dirt, dust, grass seeds, and other small objects can get lodged under the eyelid and scratch the eyes, leading to corneal ulcers.
Infections
Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can cause or worsen corneal ulcers. Pathogens can reside on objects, causing an infection whenever they see an opportunity. This can be from minor scratches, injuries from objects, and eye issues like dry eye.
Infections can progress quickly, turning a minor ulcer into a much more serious and vision-threatening wound if not treated early.
Breed Predisposition
Brachycephalic breeds automatically possess a higher risk of corneal ulcers, mainly because of their unique facial structures. These dogs have short faces and prominent eyes, increasing the risk of this condition.
This includes dogs like Shih Tzus, Pugs, Boxers, and Bulldogs.
Dry Eye
Dry eye is a condition in which the dog doesn’t produce enough tears to keep their eyes moist and protected. Without the natural moisture, the cornea becomes susceptible to damage, inflammation, and infection.
This generally comes with sticky discharge and noticeable eye irritation. Breeds such as Pugs, Lhasa Apsos, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
Eyelid Abnormalities
Structural eye conditions, such as entropion, can continually irritate the cornea. This friction scrapes the corneal surface, eventually wearing it down and causing an ulcer. As a result, surgical intervention will be required to correct the issue.
Other Health Issues
Corneal ulcers in dogs can also be caused by health issues like diabetes, Cushing’s disease, and other endocrine issues.
What are the Symptoms of Corneal Ulcers in Dogs?
The signs of a corneal ulcer in dogs will consist of physical and behavioral changes. These include:
Excessive Squinting and Blinking. One of the first and most obvious signs is squinting and constantly blinking. The pain causes affected dogs to squint or keep their eyes closed.
Sensitivity to Light. Dogs with corneal ulcers may become sensitive to light, leading them to avoid areas around the house where light is prevalent. You might notice them preferring to stay in dimly lit areas or under sofas.
Redness and Swelling. In dogs with corneal ulcers, redness and swelling may manifest on the sclera and its surrounding tissues. This is often a sign of irritation and inflammation in many eye issues.
Tearing and Discharge. Increased tear production is a natural response to irritation. You may notice different types of discharge, depending on the cause of the eye issue.
Cloudiness at the Eye. Corneal ulcers can make a dog’s corneas look hazy and cloudy. In some cases, a specific spot can appear white, which is where the ulcer has typically formed. This is because the ulcer allows fluid to seep in and cause the cloudiness.
Pawing and Rubbing at the Eye. Like other eye issues, dogs can experience irritation, leading them to rub and paw at their own eyes. Unfortunately, this can worsen the issue as more minor scratches can be caused.
How are Corneal Ulcers in Dogs Diagnosed?
Our vets use several methods to diagnose corneal ulcers in dogs and rule out other eye issues. These include:
Ocular Exam
We start with an eye exam, during which we monitor your dog’s eyes and check for common symptoms such as irritation, redness, tearing, and sensitivity to light. From here, our vets can decide what to do next.
Dye Staining
This is the standard method for detecting corneal ulcers and is usually the only type of test needed, especially for acute cases. In this test, a drop of a special dye is applied to the surface of the eye. A special blue light will then be directed to this area.
Any damage to the eye will be highlighted, allowing our vets to determine the presence, size, and depth of the ulcer.
Cytology
This test involves collecting cells from the cornea's surface or the discharge around the eye using a sterile swab. The sample will then be examined under a microscope to identify any signs of infection, inflammation, or abnormal cell growth.
Culture and Sensitivity Test
A culture and sensitivity test is more often used for cases in which an infection is involved. The obtained sample from the cornea's surface will be cultured, helping our vets identify the type of pathogen. This also aids in knowing which treatment works best.
Schirmer Tear Test
If dry eye is suspected to cause the corneal ulcer, then a Schirmer tear test will be performed. In this test, a small strip of paper is placed under the lower eyelid for one minute to measure tear production. Low tear levels will confirm the diagnosis.
While this test does not directly diagnose corneal ulcers in dogs, it’s a test that can be used in complicated cases.
How are Corneal Ulcers in Dogs Treated?
The treatment for corneal ulcers in dogs will depend on the severity of the condition. This includes:
Medical Management
For mild or superficial ulcers, treatment starts with medicated eye drops and ointments. For cases caused by infections, the appropriate antimicrobial medicines will be used. Atropine drops can also be used to help relieve the pain and discomfort by relaxing the eye muscles.
If dry eye is suspected, tear stimulants and lubricants will be included to maintain eye moisture and promote healing. Oral medications can also be used if the cause is systemic.
If foreign bodies are involved, then removal will be done, followed by medications to soothe the pain.
Surgery
In severe and complicated cases, surgery will be done. A common surgical technique is the conjunctival graft, a procedure in which a portion of the eye’s conjunctiva is moved over the ulcer. This helps protect the area and bring in blood to speed up healing.
For stubborn cases, we will perform a corneal debridement, a procedure in which the damaged tissue is removed. This helps the cornea heal and significantly reduces the pain. If the cause is an eyelid abnormality, eyelid correction will be done. This fixes the structural problem.
During the treatment process, most dogs will be required to constantly wear an Elizabethan collar to prevent rubbing or pawing at the eye.
How to Prevent Corneal Ulcers in Dogs?
While not all corneal ulcers in dogs can be prevented, there are some steps you can take to reduce the risk. These include:
Monitor Outdoor Activity
Debris, dust, and other particles can strike the eye during car rides or outdoor play. Make sure to have the windows closed and keep them away from playing in bushes. Watch out for hazards during your playtime.
Regularly Check the Eyes
Since it’s difficult to prevent corneal ulcers in dogs, it’s better to have regular eye checks to see if anything is bothering their eyes. You should also clean your dog’s eyes regularly with a soft, damp cloth. Try to do this once a week.
Schedule Regular Checkups
Professional checkups can quickly catch even the subtlest of signs. This helps fix anything that needs to be fixed before they cause any more eye problems.
Manage Health Issues
If your dog is diagnosed with eyelid issues or endocrine conditions, it’s best to have them treated and managed immediately. This will help prevent the risk of corneal ulcers.
“Healthy eyes mean a happy dog. Clear vision helps them explore and connect with the rest of the world.”
- Dr. Nenad Misura
Conclusion
Corneal ulcers in dogs are a serious condition that requires immediate care, even in superficial cases. They can cause significant pain, discomfort, and potentially, vision loss.
Fortunately, this condition can be managed and treated. By having an idea on what the symptoms look like, you’ll be able to give your dog the help it needs.
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