A corneal ulcer is damage to the clear outer layer at the front of the eye. Some ulcers are very superficial, like a small scratch, while others can be much deeper and more serious.
Because the front of the eye is so thin, deep ulcers can weaken it significantly. In severe cases, the eye can rupture, which may require emergency surgery or removal of the eye. Early diagnosis greatly improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
There are also specific types of ulcers, such as indolent ulcers and ‘melting’ ulcers, which are more complex and require intensive treatment under veterinary supervision.
Eye ulcers are painful, and dogs often show clear signs of discomfort.
Contact your vet if you notice any of the following:
Even subtle changes can be important. You know your dog best, so trust your instincts if something doesn’t look right.
You should contact your vet urgently if your dog shows any signs of eye pain or irritation. Eye ulcers can deteriorate quickly, and early treatment can make a significant difference to the outcome.
There are several possible reasons a dog may develop a corneal ulcer, including:
Dry eye, where a lack of tears leads to irritation and damage
Injuries, such as scratches from sticks, thorns or cat claws
Foreign material like grit or grass seeds trapped in the eye
Eyelid problems, including eyelids that roll inwards and rub on the eye
Abnormal eyelashes that grow in the wrong direction
Eye infections, either bacterial or viral
In some dogs, ulcers can recur, and your vet may investigate whether there is an underlying issue contributing to the problem.
Treatment depends on how deep and severe the ulcer is, but most dogs respond well with the right care. Treatment may include a combination of the following:
Buster collar to prevent rubbing or scratching
Antibiotic eye drops or ointments if infection is present
Lubricating drops to keep the eye moist and comfortable
Pain relief, often in the form of anti-inflammatory medication
Atropine drops if the eye is very painful or the pupil is constricted
In more serious cases, your dog may need surgery or referral to a specialist eye clinic. Your vet will talk you through the best options for your dog.
If an ulcer isn’t improving, your vet may carry out further tests or treatments. This can include taking a swab from the eye, changing medications, or performing a minor procedure to encourage healing. These steps are often very effective when standard treatment hasn’t worked.
Not all eye ulcers can be prevented, but you can reduce the risk by taking sensible precautions. Try to protect short-nosed dogs from running into hedges or sharp objects, and keep dogs and cats separated if play tends to get rough. Most importantly, seek veterinary advice promptly if you notice any eye changes.
Eye problems can become costly, particularly if surgery or specialist care is needed. If possible, arrange pet insurance when your dog is young and healthy to help cover unexpected illness. Always speak openly with your vet about treatment options, costs and what is manageable for you.
