Veterinary Eye Disorders: Entropion
Entropion is a dysfunction of your pet’s eyelid, which causes the eyelid to roll into the eye. If left and untreated, entropion can lead to corneal scarring, erosion, ulceration, and eventually blindness. The condition is very painful, and prompt veterinary care is recommended to preserve vision.
Diagnosing Entropion
Entropion is a common eye problem in pets, and is diagnosed with a physical eye exam. Many veterinary ophthalmic tests are not invasive, and can be performed without general anesthesia. To ensure your pet’s comfort, topical anesthetic drops are administered before testing.
Symptoms noticeable to owners may include:
- Watery eyes, tearing (excessive lacrimation)
- Ocular discharge
- Squinting
- Eye redness
- Visible “inrolling” of the upper and/or lower eyelids
- Thick, heavy skin around the eyes
- Eyelid swelling
- Difficulty opening the eyes
- Pain
- Depression
- Lethargy
- Corneal ulceration
- Rubbing at the eyes
Treatment for Entropion
Early detection and treatment of entropion is necessary to preserve your pet’s vision. Mild symptoms can be managed by applying topical lubrication, such as eye drops or ointments.
In moderate and severe cases, entropion surgery is recommended as successful and permanent corrective solution. Our experienced veterinary team utilizes advanced techniques and equipment to surgically correct your pet’s entropion condition.
Young pets may not be candidates for permanent entropion corrective surgery. Puppies and kittens can receive surgical relief, but it may be necessary to perform additional revisions while they mature.
Entropion surgery is very successful in the preservation of vision, if diagnosed and treated early. Please contact us to schedule an eye exam for your pet, or to discuss any questions you may have regarding your pet’s eye health.