A horse's eyes are not only sensitive but also crucial for orientation, safety, and performance. Early detection and professional treatment of diseases or injuries are essential to prevent complications or vision loss. Our equine clinic offers comprehensive diagnostics and modern treatment options for eye diseases.
When is an ophthalmological examination necessary?
- Sudden or persistent eye swelling
- Excessive tearing or discharge
- Light sensitivity, frequent blinking, or squinting
- Red, cloudy, or milky eyes
- Injuries around the eye or eyelids
- Changes in pupil size or reflexes
- Decreased performance or increased skittishness due to impaired vision
If you notice any of these signs in your horse, we recommend an immediate examination for early diagnosis and treatment.
Available examinations in our clinic:
- General eye examination: assessment of eyelids, cornea, conjunctiva, and lens
- Ophthalmoscopy (fundus examination) to assess the retina and optic nerve
- Slit-lamp examination for detailed analysis of the cornea, lens, and anterior chamber
- Fluorescein and Rose Bengal tests for diagnosing corneal injuries and inflammations
- Tonometry (intraocular pressure measurement) for early detection of glaucoma
- Pupil reaction test to evaluate vision
These examinations enable precise diagnosis and targeted treatment of eye diseases.
Treatment of acute and chronic eye diseases
• Corneal injuries and infections:
Corneal injuries are common emergencies in equine medicine. We offer appropriate medical treatments or surgical interventions when necessary.
• Inflammatory eye conditions (uveitis, conjunctivitis):
Inflammations can be caused by allergies, infections, or immune reactions. Rapid and tailored treatment is crucial to prevent permanent damage.
• Equine Recurrent Uveitis (ERU):
"Moon blindness" is one of the leading causes of blindness in horses. We offer modern treatments, including prolonged medical therapies and surgical interventions such as vitrectomy to stop inflammation permanently.
• Glaucoma:
Elevated intraocular pressure can lead to blindness. With advanced diagnostics and medical or surgical treatments, we aim to preserve vision.
• Cataracts and lens luxation:
Lens opacity significantly impairs vision. We provide suitable treatments depending on the cause.
• Eyelid tumors and malformations:
Tumors or abnormalities in the eyelids can cause chronic irritation. We perform surgical corrections and tumor removals to ensure the horse's well-being.
Surgical procedures and specialized therapies
In our clinic, we perform modern interventions for various eye diseases:
• Eyelid surgery (e.g., tumor removal, malformation correction)
• Corneal surgery and reconstructive procedures, conjunctival flap, etc.
• Vitrectomy (surgery of the vitreous body) for treating Equine Recurrent Uveitis (ERU)
• Lens surgery
• Laser therapy for certain eye conditions
• Subpalpebral catheter placement for precise and prolonged medication delivery
We collaborate with Dr. Stefan Gesell, an experienced specialist in equine ophthalmology, who utilizes innovative techniques to optimize horses' vision.
An injured or diseased eye is always an emergency! The faster the treatment, the better the chances of recovery.