Horses, ponies and donkeys can suffer from a variety of eye diseases including ulcers, fungal infections, swollen eye lids, blindness and cataracts.

It is important to have a vet check your horse if you suspect any kind of eye condition. Not only will the eye require attention but the symptoms can also be a sign of other serious medical problems.

Types of eye disease in horses include:

• Neoplasia of the Eyelids
• Corneal Ulceration
• Fungal Ulcers
• Corneal Abcesses
• Equine Cataracts
• Uveal Tract Disease
• Glaucoma
• Retinal Disease
• Sudden Blindness

Eye disease can be painful so it’s important to have a vet check your horse if you suspect any kind of eye condition. Not only will the eye require attention but the symptoms can also be a sign of other serious medical problems.

For the safety of the animal it is best to bring them into a stable or enclosed area whilst the problem is diagnosed and treated. Maybe provide a quiet companion to keep him company.

Treatment of equine eye conditions can include laser eye therapy, surgery or antibiotics.

Blind Horses

For many people, the biggest fear is that their horse could lose his sight. They assume that this brings an immediate death sentence for the animal. This need not necessarily be the case.
Before making a decision about having your horse put to sleep give him time to adjust to the darkness. You may just find that he adapts quickly to his new world.

Many horses that have gone blind adapt well to their disability and go on to lead long and happy lives.