Effective Treatments for Feline Corneal Ulcer Managemen

It is crucial to screen for the following conditions as potential causes or influences of corneal ulcers.

1. Abnormal Eyelashes. Excess eyelashes or misplaced eyelashes, known as ectopic cilia, are a rare cause, more commonly seen in dogs. These rogue lashes can irritate the cornea, leading to ulcers through chronic friction and stimulation.

2. Eyelid Abnormalities. Entropion, where the eyelids roll inward, or ptosis, where the eyelids do not close completely during blinking, can either cause or exacerbate corneal ulcers. Entropion is uncommon in cats and may be due to acquired injury or inflammation, sometimes inherited. It can lead to friction from eyelashes or eyelid hairs against the cornea, potentially contributing to ulcers. A condition known as rabbit eyes may occur after nerve damage responsible for blinking, and it can also affect cats with bulging eyes or overly large eyelid openings, which is a genetic issue.

3. "Dry Eye" Caused by Feline Keratoconjunctivitis. Insufficient tear production or a lack of any of the essential components of tears can make the corneal surface more susceptible to infection or environmental irritation. The tear film is a vital protective mechanism for the eyes.

4. Feline Herpesvirus (FHV1) is an infectious disease that can cause corneal ulcers in cats. It affects cats only and may sometimes be associated with symptoms of upper respiratory infections.

5. Uveitis is a common complication of severe corneal ulcers. Pain from the ulcer can lead to inflammation within the eye. This inflammation is accompanied by the release of intraocular substances and subsequent uveitis. Uveitis typically resolves after appropriate treatment of the ulcer, but veterinary care may recommend special treatments for uveitis.

Deep Diagnosis of Corneal Ulcers

Your veterinarian will conduct a comprehensive medical history and perform a thorough ophthalmic examination. A thorough examination can provide important information about the cause and severity of corneal ulcers. It may also highlight other related symptoms or diseases, as listed above. The examination is often conducted in a dimly lit room, using bright lights and some form of magnification.

During the examination, fluorescein staining is applied to the cornea, and any excess is rinsed away. Fluorescein staining adheres to any areas of the corneal surface that are missing, outlining the ulcer's contour for accurate assessment of its size and depth.

If low tear production is suspected, a tear test can be performed. A small, calibrated filter paper is placed inside the lower eyelid for one minute. The distance tears flow along the filter paper is a measure of tear production. This test is safe and painless.

In cases where the ulcer is infected, a special sample can be taken from the cornea and examined under a microscope, followed by bacterial culture and sensitivity testing, or viral testing. If the ulcer progresses rapidly and does not respond to appropriate antibiotics, it is important to consider whether feline herpesvirus (FHV1) is involved, especially if the response to treatment is not as expected.

If specialized techniques, equipment, or diagnostic procedures are needed, your veterinarian may refer your cat to a veterinary ophthalmologist for further evaluation.