Equine Uveitis Mask Uk? Top Answer Update

Frequently Asked Questions Q: I bought one of your masks and everything you said is well built and sturdy, but my horse has thin skin and there is a spot where the mask rubs the hair off his skin . What would you recommend? A: We have found that using mole skin, fleece or spandex helps in this area, you can sew it where needed with heavy duty thread. We also have the Traditional 95% Guardian Mask which is 95% materials however there are no “sunshades”. The sunshades are designed to keep the mesh away from your horse’s eyes so the mask can help with protection while it heals properly. This is an alternative mask for such occasions, please check your horse to ensure it is not rubbing against objects. Q: I have a four year old Quarter Horse that has a problem with eye tears and puffiness and her eyes tend to get cloudy. What do you recommend? A: Have your vet check for possible uveitis. We recommend using Guardian Mask with 95% sun protection along with treatments discussed with your veterinarian. Please use the mask at any time of the day all year round. Not just during the flare. Use both parasols if your horse is only showing symptoms in one eye, both eyes still need protection, or the good eye may be affected. If not treated aggressively, the disease can come back with a vengeance. Use the mask all year round to best support the healing, control and prevention of eye diseases. Q: My horse throws his head violently and I can’t ride him, but he stops at night. What is causing this? A: This could be one of the symptoms of photosensitivity – shaking of the head, your horse should be thoroughly examined by your veterinarian. We recommend using the Guardian 95% sun protection mask in daylight year-round to help with these sensitivities. Q: Is it safe for my horse to see out of the mask when using the 95% sunscreen? A: Yes, the horse should quickly adapt to the Guardian Mask. We are often asked if we should use the mask at night. Horses have excellent night vision and can comfortably use the mask 24/7. We recommend using common sense and checking under the mask as often as possible to ensure it is dirt free or not rubbing. Q: My horse has uveitis, can I remove the mask if or when the symptoms are gone? A: For each of the five major ailments and/or general protection, we recommend year-round use for the best healing, control and protection for your horse. Often conditions can return if the condition was originally caused by excessive sun exposure. Q: I have a miniature horse, do you make a mask in this size? A: Yes, we have two sizes for miniatures, large and small. Q: How do I wash my Guardian Mask? A: Use a hose with a high-pressure nozzle, when using soap, do not use detergent on the velcro. You can also machine wash in warm water with detergent-free soap. Please wash on gentle cycle. Q: My horse is rubbing his snout on the wall, why? A: Possibly to relieve trigeminal nerve pain caused by photosensitivity. Consult your veterinarian and consider trying Guardian Mask with 95% sun protection. Use the mask in daylight all year round. Q: I noticed that my horse has his head stuck in a water barrel up to his eyes. A: One of the many symptoms of photosensitivity due to pain in the trigeminal nerve area. Consult your veterinarian and consider trying Guardian Mask with 95% sun protection. Use the mask in daylight all year round. Q: My vet has put me on different types of medication like Bute, Banamine and some steroids for his uveitis, nothing seems to work. A: We have had excellent results in maintenance and as an aid to healing using the Guardian Mask and 95% Sunshades. Consult your veterinarian and consider trying the Guardian Mask with 95% sun protection along with the recommended treatments. If you use the mask any time of the day, year-round, you will most likely be able to wean your horse off Bute or Banamine. Please only do this after consulting your veterinarian. Q: I was told by my vet that Cisco has cataracts. Would your mask and sunshades help slow this process down? A: Yes, with the added protection from UV rays. Just make sure you use the mask in daylight all year round. Q: How often does my horse need to wear his protective mask with his eye problems? A: Our research and feedback has shown that horses suffering from headshaking, uveitis, cataracts, cancer, glaucoma and other related eye problems should wear the protective mask with 95% sun protection at all times of the day for the rest of the horse’s natural life . There is currently no known cure for many of these conditions, but the mask’s properties are an excellent aid in blocking the sun, which in turn aids healing and also reduces pain from direct sunlight. Q: Does age and race or location have anything to do with headshaking? A: We found that it has nothing to do with age or breed of location, we have sold and shipped our product for any breed and any age from 6 months to 37 years all over the world. However, there is evidence that certain breeds, such as Appaloosa, are more prone to uveitis and eye diseases than any other breed. We are aware that there is ongoing research into horse genetics to learn more. Q: My horse was recently diagnosed with chronic headshaking which ended our competitive endurance riding. Can I safely use the mask in competitions? A: Yes, we have had several situations like yours in the past and once the horse gets used to the Guardian Mask its performance returns to normal in most cases. You may want to contact the organization you are competing with to see if they qualify the mask as part of your regular equipment as the horse requires the mask and it is an equine medical garment. _____________________________ Please do not hesitate to call or email us if you have any questions about your horse’s eye health. We will be happy to discuss these with you and share our 30 years of experience dealing with equine eye health.

Sydne’s horse “Daisy” Daisy wears the standard Guardian mask with 95% sun protection Courtesy of Wex Ranch, located in New Mexico Special Credits

Horse wears a fly mask with earmuffs.

A fly mask or fly hat is a mask used on horses to cover the eyes, jaw and sometimes the ears and muzzle to protect them from flies. The mask is semi-transparent and made from mesh so the horse can see and hear while wearing it. The mask can also offer some protection from UV light and some are treated with insect repellent.[1] Fly and mosquito repellent is an important part of overall horse care, as biting insects are both a source of irritation and can transmit disease. [further explanation needed]

A fly mask with ears showing attachment and other details. Note that the mesh is transparent

Horse with fly mask without ear protection

The top photo shows the camera view through a mesh fly mask, the bottom photo shows the view without the mask. Horses can see through the mesh with minimal interference. Masks are often removed at night

Most masks are made of black or white mesh, although some are colored, checked, or have screen-printed patterns that do not obscure vision. Fly masks are set to cover the top of the head and stop about halfway down the face, but the placement of sewn darts keeps the mask from rubbing against the eyes. Most have fleece padding around the muzzle and other sensitive areas. Masks come with and without ear covers. Some designs have an elongated flap that covers the snout but does not go around the lower jaw or interfere with grazing. Most attach with Velcro, but some high-end mesh and stretch Lycra designs are required to include zippers instead.

A standard fly mask is not generally used when horseback riding as the stiff mesh will interfere with the snaffle and the minimal visual impact of the mesh is still a safety concern. Other types of insect repellent gear are designed to be used with a bridle. One design is a crocheted “bonnet” for the ears only, to be worn under a bridle without friction. The other is a soft, very fine-mesh face and nose covering mask designed to be worn with a bridle and not impede vision, but not tough enough to withstand turnout.

It is generally recommended that the mask be removed and inspected daily and washed frequently. Some people remove the mask at night.

The emergence of fly masks often raises concerns among non-horse owners, as the horse appears to have been blindfolded. But even a durable mesh is fine enough for the horse to see through. Some masks are screen printed with sunglasses or cartoon eyeballs to help passers-by understand their purpose.

See also[edit]

Topical steroids and systemic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are used together to reduce inflammation.

Topical atropine is used as an adjunctive treatment to reduce intraocular pain and cause mydriasis.

In visually impaired patients, a suprachoroidal implant or vitrectomy can be performed to reduce uveitic episodes.

If the eyes are blind and painful, an enucleation should be performed.

The primary goals of therapy for recurrent uveitis in horses are to reduce inflammation, relieve discomfort, and prevent vision loss. If possible, the specific underlying cause should be diagnosed and treated as part of the initial treatment regimen. Regardless of whether the underlying cause is identified, aggressive treatment with systemic and topical anti-inflammatory drugs is promptly initiated to minimize damage from intraocular inflammation. Flunixin meglumine administered systemically (particularly IV) is critical for the initial treatment of acute uveitis in horses. The typical initial IV dose is 1.1 mg/kg, administered at the time of diagnosis, followed by a 5- to 7-day regimen of 0.5-1.1 mg/kg, PO, twice daily. As inflammation resolves, the dosage may be reduced to 0.25-0.5 mg/kg once daily or every other day for a 1-3 month treatment period.

Due to the potential for renal toxicity, serum creatinine is monitored intermittently when flunixin meglumine is used for > 1 month. Horses treated with flunixin meglumine should also be monitored for signs of gastrointestinal ulceration, and concomitant prophylactic administration of omeprazole (2 mg/kg/day, po) may be indicated. Alternatively, if flunixin meglumine is not tolerated, phenylbutazone (2 to 4 mg/kg orally once or twice a day) or aspirin (10 to 25 mg/kg orally once or twice a day) can be used, but both are not as strong or effective. Historically, horses with frequent recurrences or chronic, low-grade uveitis have been medicated with daily (or every other day) doses of oral phenylbutazone or aspirin. Although most horses tolerate this regimen well, these drugs can have adverse GI, hematologic, or renal effects, and these regimens often do not eliminate recurrence.

Systemic steroids, particularly prednisolone (100–300 mg/day) and dexamethasone (5–10 mg/day), have also been used successfully to treat acute episodes of uveitis, but their long-term use has been associated with laminitis. Except in cases where bacterial infection is present, systemic antibiotics are not indicated.

Topical steroid medications, including dexamethasone (0.1% suspension or ointment) and prednisolone acetate (1% suspension), are very effective in reducing inflammation. Topical acetate and suspension preparations of steroids are designed to penetrate the cornea and achieve adequate uveal concentrations and are therefore preferred over sodium phosphate formulations. Topical hydrocortisone should be avoided as it does not penetrate the cornea sufficiently and is not effective enough to treat anterior uveitis.

Fluorescein staining is warranted prior to the initiation of topical steroids as these drugs are contraindicated in corneal ulcers and/or infections. Topical nonsteroidal drugs include flurbiprofen (0.03% solution) and diclofenac (0.1% solution); They are less potent than topical steroids but offer a greater margin of safety in the presence of corneal disease. The frequency of administration depends on the severity of the inflammation; initially administration may be 4-6 times daily. As clinical symptoms improve, the frequency of administration of topical steroid or nonsteroidal drugs can be gradually decreased. However, the therapy should be continued for 1 month after the active inflammation has completely resolved.

Topical atropine (1% solution or ointment) causes mydriasis (reducing the likelihood of posterior synechiae formation) and cycloplegia (reducing pain associated with ciliary body muscle spasms) and stabilizes the blood-water barrier. Atropine is applied topically 2 to 3 times daily until the pupil is dilated; the rate can then be adjusted to maintain mydriasis. Because atropine decreases GI motility, horses treated with topical atropine should be monitored for signs of ileus.

When frequent topical medication is not possible, subconjunctival injections of triamcinolone acetamide (1–2 mg) provide adequate intraocular anti-inflammatory concentrations for 7–10 days and are less likely to cause abscesses or granulomas than other steroids, including methylprednisolone acetate (10–40 mg). However, all subconjunctival steroids should be used with caution because they cannot be easily removed after injection and can have devastating consequences if an infectious component is present or a corneal ulcer develops.

Two surgical procedures are commonly used in long-term treatment. A suprachoroidal cyclosporin implant is a sustained-release drug that provides therapeutic levels of cyclosporin A, an immunosuppressive T-cell inhibitor, for approximately 3 years after implantation. During this procedure, a cyclosporin A disk (approximately 5 mm in diameter) is implanted under a scleral flap created approximately 8 mm posterior to the dorsolateral aspect of the limbus. Horses with implants have significantly fewer episodes of uveitis than before surgery and this device results in effective long-term control of ERU.

In core vitrectomy, virtually all of the vitreous is removed through an incision posterior to the dorsolateral aspect of the limbus. The vitreous is then replaced with either a balanced salt solution or saline solution. The theoretical advantage of this method is that organisms, particularly Leptospira spp., and/or inflammatory cells in the vitreous contribute significantly to the chronic inflammation of ERU. Removing these factors minimizes the frequency and severity of uveitic episodes. Enucleation should be recommended in eyes that are blind or painful from ERU.

Good to know Equine recurrent uveitis (ERU or moon blindness) is the most common cause of vision loss in horses.

ERU is likely a complex autoimmune disease influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.

The disease is more common in some breeds, with Appaloosas being 8 times more likely to develop ERU than other breeds studied. The LP genetic test can be used to assess ERU risk in Appaloosas.

Infectious organisms, particularly Leptospira spp., have been associated with ERU.

There is currently no cure for ERU. *Download a printable version of this article here.

What is recurrent uveitis in horses?

Equine recurrent uveitis (ERU), also known as moon blindness, is the leading cause of blindness in horses worldwide. It affects 2-25% of horses worldwide, with 56% of affected horses eventually going blind. More than 60% of affected horses are unable to return to their previous level of performance. ERU is most commonly characterized by repeated episodes of inflammation of the eye’s uveal tract (middle layer), affecting one or both eyes. A subclinical manifestation known as insidious uveitis does not present as externally painful episodes, but instead is consistent, low-grade (non-episodic) inflammation that causes cumulative damage to the eye. Cumulative damage caused by ERU can lead to cataracts, glaucoma, and eventually blindness. Although not all horses suffering a single episode of uveitis will develop ERU, they are at risk of developing the disease.

Equine recurrent uveitis is believed to be a complex autoimmune disease influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Appaloosa horses are particularly prone to ERU and especially bilateral disease, suggesting that genetics play a significant role in ERU risk in this breed. Appaloosas are 8 times more likely to develop ERU than other breeds and are significantly more likely to go blind in one or both eyes. Genetic studies have identified LP, the allele that causes the white spot pattern, as an ERU risk factor in the breed, with homozygotes at highest risk (LP/LP). However, not all homozygotes are affected, and work is continuing to uncover other genetic risk factors (both genetic and non-genetic). Other breeds with a high incidence of ERU in the United States include American Quarter Horse, Thoroughbred, Warmblood, Hanoverian, and American Paint Horse. Genetic studies also identified genomic loci associated with the disease in warmbloods and Icelandic horses, but genetic testing for these breeds is not currently available.

Infectious organisms, particularly Leptospira spp., have also been implicated in ERU. An increased incidence of complications and vision loss has been reported in ERU-affected horses associated with leptospirosis, particularly Appaloosas. The precise mechanisms by which Leptospira spp. cause ERU are unknown. Higher prevalence rates of ERU are reported in tropical, temperate climates than in dry, arid climates. This may be due to differences in Leptospira spp. be attributable to the environment.

There is currently no cure for ERU.

What are the clinical signs of recurrent uveitis in horses?

Episodes of redness, tearing, and squinting can be early indicators of eye problems. Recurrent uveitis in horses can affect one or both eyes and cause more severe symptoms in one eye than the other eye. The disease tends to increase in severity with repeated episodes. However, the insidious form often does not show externally painful episodes.

The disease is divided into 3 syndromes:

Classic – This form is the most common and is characterized by periods of apparently painful, active inflammation of the eye(s) separated from periods of no or little inflammation. The repeated attacks often lead to vision loss. Breeds that are predisposed to this form include warmbloods and Icelandic horses.

Insidious – Horses with insidious ERU typically have persistent, low-grade inflammation in the eyes. The condition is often not externally painful, but causes gradual destruction of eye tissue and degeneration of structures in the eye, resulting in loss of vision. This form is most common in Appaloosas and has been observed in draft breeds.

Posterior – Posterior ERU is characterized by inflammation of structures at the back of the eye (vitreous, retina, choroid). Retinal degeneration is common and this form is most commonly seen in warmbloods and draft breeds.

How is recurrent uveitis in horses diagnosed?

Diagnosis of ERU is based on clinical and ophthalmologic examinations and a history of documented recurrent or persistent inflammation in one or both eyes. It is important to examine the front (front) and back (back) parts of the eye to identify signs consistent with ERU and rule out other eye disorders. A fluorescein stain can be used to assess the condition of the cornea and distinguish it from other eye diseases. A complete blood count (CBC) and serum biochemistry, along with serological testing for Leptospira spp. be performed.

Common eye exam findings associated with ERU include corneal edema, aqueous stains, posterior synechia, corpora nigra atrophy, cataract formation, vitreous degeneration, retinal edema or degeneration.

How is recurrent uveitis treated in horses?

Treatment for ERU focuses on eliminating or reducing inflammation in the eyes, preserving vision, relieving pain, and minimizing the recurrence of episodes of inflammation. Topical corticosteroids (prednisolone, dexamethasone), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (flurbiprofen, diclofenac, suprofen, bromfenac), and mydriatics (atropine) are used to reduce inflammation and minimize damage during an active episode. However, these treatments are not necessarily effective in preventing the disease from recurring.

Injections of corticosteroids (methylprednisolone, gentamicin, or triamcinolone) into the eye(s) are used to treat severe cases. Systemic medications include NSAIDs (flunixin meglumine, phenylbutazone) and corticosteroids (dexamethasone, prednisolone).

Surgical options for treating ERU are the suprachoroidal cyclosporine implant and core vitrectomy. The Cyclosporine Implant is a sustained-release device that provides therapeutic doses of Cyclosporine A for up to 3 years after implantation. This approach has been shown to successfully control inflammation and minimize recurrence. In core vitrectomy, which is performed under general anesthesia, the nucleus of the vitreous is removed to remove debris (including organisms such as Leptospira spp.) trapped in vitreous fluids. The fluid is then replaced with saline. This approach can improve vision, minimize episodes, and delay the progression of clinical symptoms.

Enucleation (removal of the eye) is recommended for ERU-affected eyes that are painful or blind.

What is the prognosis for recurrent uveitis in horses?

Early diagnosis and intervention are associated with the best prognosis for ERU-affected horses. The long-term prognosis is cautious. Current treatments can slow the progression of inflammation in the eye, but are not curative. More than 60% of affected horses are unable to return to previous levels of work, and about 56% of ERU-affected horses eventually go blind. ERU-affected horses with glaucoma or cataracts are more likely to go blind and also require removal of the affected eye (enucleation).

How can recurrent uveitis in horses be prevented?

Genetic risks for ERU have been reported in Appaloosas (insidious ERU) and German Warmbloods (posterior ERU). The risk of ERU in Appaloosas can be assessed using the LP genetic test. Horses with two copies of the LP mutation (homozygous LP/LP) are at higher risk of developing ERU than horses without a leopard pattern (N/N). It is important to note that research is needed to determine whether the LP mutation is responsible for ERU, or whether LP is simply inherited along with the causal mutation (i.e., located nearby on the DNA). However, horses testing for LP/LP should have their eyes examined frequently by a veterinary ophthalmologist for early detection and treatment if inflammation is detected.

For more informations:

UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory Genetic Testing for Leopard Complex (Appaloosa spotting).

Hack, Y., de Linde Henriksen, M., Holberg Pihl, T., Krarup Nielsen, R., Dwyer, AE, Bellone, R.R. 2022. A genetic study of equine recurrent uveitis in the Icelandic horse breed. Animal Genetics 53:436-440.

de Linde Henriksen, M., Dwyer, AE, Krarup Nielsen, R., Dahlmann Christensen, N., Holberg Pihl, T. 2021. Ocular abnormalities in the Icelandic horse with a focus on equine recurrent uveitis 112 Icelandic horses living in Denmark and 26 Icelandic horses living in Denmark live in the United States. Veterinary Ophthalmology 00: 1–15.

H Rockwell, M Mack, T Famula, L Sandmeyer, B Bauer, A Dwyer, M Lassaline, S Beeson, S Archer, M McCue, Bellone, R.R. 2019. Genetic study of recurrent uveitis in Appaloosa horses. Animal Genetics 51:111-116.

Saldinger, LK, Nelson, SG, Bellone, RR, Lassaline, M, Mack, M, Walker, NJ, Borjesson, DL. 2019. Horses with recurrent equine uveitis have an activated CD4+ T cell phenotype that can be modulated by mesenchymal stem cells in vitro. Veterinary Ophthalmology 23(1): 160-170.

Fritz, KL, Kaese, HJ, Valberg, SJ, Hendrickson, JA, Rendahl, AK, Bellone, RR, Dynes, KM, Wagner, ML, Lucio, MA, Cuomo, FM, Brinkmeyer-Langford, Cl, Skow, LC, Mickelson JR, Rutherford MS, McCue ME 2014. Genetic risk factors for insidious recurrent uveitis in Appaloosa horses. Animal Genetics 45(3):392-399.

Fly masks, like this model from Farnam, provide much-needed relief from pests. | Photo courtesy of Farnam

A full mane, forelock and tail serve as nature’s fly protection system for your horse. However, if your horse is not so equipped, you may need to consider a fly mask. Learn more about the correct use of fly masks below.

[ READ: 7 Fly Control Solutions ]

Stinging and blood-sucking insects around your horse’s face and head can be a real source of misery throughout the fly season. Modern fly masks are designed to protect your horse from these nasty pests that can both spread germs and cause discomfort.

We asked Barb Crabbe, DVM, H&R Consultant Veterinarian and author of The Comprehensive Guide to Equine Veterinary Medicine (Sterling Publishing Co., Inc.) to share with us the key do’s and don’ts for using fly masks safely and effectively.

Here’s what she told us.

Choose a well-made mask made of a non-abrasive material with a soft lining wherever the mask comes in contact with your horse’s face.

Make sure the mask fits your horse’s head properly so it can be adjusted to fit snugly against his face. The bottom edge of the mask should fall at least 1 inch below your horse’s cheekbones; Otherwise, a gap created by the cheekbone allows the flies easy entry under your horse’s jaw. In general, the more of your horse’s face that is covered by the mask, the greater the protection (although some horses take offense to full-face masks and are less likely to rub down a regular coverage model).

Pay special attention to how the mask fits over your horse’s eyes. This is an important safety consideration as a corneal ulcer can develop if there is contact between any part of your horse’s eye (including his eyelash) and his fly mask. The mask should be designed with darts or rounded panels to allow the front part of the mask to be permanently raised to give full clearance around your horse’s eyes, check from every angle, with your horse’s head in different positions, raised and lowered.

Do not adjust the mask so that it fits snugly against your horse’s face and jaw. You should be able to slide your finger easily between the mask and your horse’s face; Otherwise, uncomfortable pressure points can cause abrasions and sores, or cause your horse to work off the mask. (And flies don’t try to get under the mask anyway, they just crawl on it where they won’t bother your horse.)

Don’t forget your horse’s ears. If mosquitoes or midges are a problem in your area, a mask with ear hoods may be preferable. (Note, however, that some horses will dislike ear covers and will try harder to remove such a mask. Experiment with different mask styles; your horse may prefer a model with soft mesh that slides easily over the ears.)

Check the mask every day for torn or worn areas, stray fibers from the mesh, stickers, or anything else that might be causing a problem. Replace a damaged mask if it cannot be safely repaired. Also, examine your horse’s face and head daily, looking for abrasions and sores.

Do not leave the mask on overnight. Your horse doesn’t need it at night and is safer without it.

keep it clean Dirt accumulated in the mesh can get into your horse’s eyes, and an overall dirty mask can lead to skin infections. Having an extra mask for each horse makes washing a lot easier.

During the worst fly season, consider applying a fly repellent around the face under the mask for extra protection.

Riding in fly season?

Riding model fly masks are a wonderful innovation. They are easier for your horse to see through than a standard mask, so don’t obstruct his vision while riding. However, they are not usually as durable as a regular mask and should therefore not be left on while your horse is outside.

Some models of fly masks, like this one from Cashel, are designed to be worn on your horse while you ride it.| Photo courtesy of Cashel

But for days when the flies are particularly bad or your horse is particularly sensitive to them, a riding fly mask can be a great investment.

[READ ABOUT: Feed-Through Fly Control]

All links on this page that lead to products on Amazon are affiliate links and I get a commission if you make a purchase. Thank you in advance – I really appreciate that!

During the long summer days we put fly masks on our horses to give them extra protection from horseflies and other insects. When my grandson saw the masked horses he asked if we could ride them with their mask on.

Horses may be ridden with fly masks provided this does not obstruct your animal’s vision. Before riding a horse with a fly mask, make sure it does not interfere with your horse’s bit or reins and allows for adequate visibility.

Most horse owners buy fly masks for their horses without thinking about riding them. However, not all fly masks are created equal and some are not suitable for riding.

Tips for riding your horse with a fly mask.

If you are riding a horse with a fly mask, you must take precautions to ensure you and your horse are safe. Here are some tips I have found useful when riding with a fly mask on my horse.

1. Make sure you are not blocking your horse’s vision.

A fly mask must not impair the horse’s vision when riding. Horses are prey animals that are constantly scanning their surroundings, with overly sensitive eyes that pick up the slightest movement.

Any obstruction to their vision puts them on high alert and increases their stress levels. Aside from increasing your horse’s stress levels, it’s also dangerous to ride an animal that can’t see where you’re going.

Horses need to see obstacles and where they are stepping in order not to stumble; This applies in particular when driving through the forest or over rough terrain.

Some horsefly masks are made of a material that is difficult to see through, and others are designed with cups to protect an injured eye or to provide protection from the wind. These types of masks are not suitable for riding.

In order for your horse to be able to see through a fly mask, you should look through it yourself. Also check that the baskets do not obstruct the horse’s vision when the bridle is on.

2. Fly masks must be kept away from the horse’s eyes.

If you ride your horse with a fly mask, it should be away from your eyes and never touch the eye or eyelashes. Mesh that is too close to a horse’s eyes makes it uncomfortable on the trail.

It irritates horses when the mesh of a fly mask is too close to their eyes and rubs their eyelashes. Most horsefly masks are designed to be unobtrusive and provide ample room for long lashes when properly fitted.

3. The fly mask should not interfere with the bit or reins.

Standard fly masks are stiff and cumbersome to ride; However, some brands make fly masks specifically for riding. Riding masks allow you to protect your animal without affecting the bit or reins.

Most riding fly masks are designed to fit over the bridle; However, some models fit under the bridle and cover the horse’s face. They do a good job of keeping flies away, but often fit too close to the horse’s eyes.

4. Do not jump on your horse with a fly mask.

It is particularly dangerous to jump on your horse with a fly mask. Horses have excellent lateral vision, but their long muzzles make them difficult to focus on objects closer than two meters.

This means that every time a jockey forces his animal over a fence, the animal jumps blind. When a horse approaches a jump he sees it clearly, but as he approaches it the obstacle disappears from his vision, blocked by the obstruction of the horse’s own head.

Jumpers need concentration to successfully clear hurdles, and the slightest distraction can result in them crashing into a fence. Often, jumpers turn their heads slightly to see the jump with one eye.

There are too many things that could go wrong to risk jumping a horse with a fly mask on. Even the best mask could create a distraction or obscure the animal’s vision enough to cause a fall and serious injury to both rider and horse.

Our pick for the best horsefly mask to use while riding your horse.

Overall, we found the Cashel EZ Quiet Ride to be the most effective. You can click here to check Amazon prices. And if you want to read what other customers have to say about the Cashel EZ Quiet Ride click here, it has been rated 4.6 stars out of 5.

Can you leave a horsefly mask on overnight?

When we recently returned from a long horseback ride, my grandson parked his horse and left his fly mask on. My first reaction was to scold him, but I wasn’t sure if leaving a fly mask on a horse overnight was wrong.

Fly masks should be removed at night unless the horse has a medical condition such as B. an eye infection you protect. Fly masks must be removed and cleaned after each use to avoid infection.

Sometimes children and adults are tired after a long ride, but taking care of your horse is a priority, which includes removing the fly mask at night.

How long can a horse wear a fly mask?

I recently advised my grandson that we do not leave our horses in fly masks overnight. Which he fully understood but raised an interesting question, how long can we keep horsefly masks on our horses?

A horsefly mask should be removed and washed daily; however, some models should not be worn for more than four hours. Also, some horses don’t tolerate flea masks as well as others. So the correct answer is, it depends on your horse and your fly masks, but it definitely needs to be removed on a daily basis.

By removing the fly mask you can ensure that it fits properly and does not chafe the horse’s skin. Once the mask is removed, scrub well before using again.

Why do horses wear fly masks?

The horsefly mask protects your pet’s face from insects. That’s their primary design purpose, but they’re used for other things as well. Some horsefly masks are made with UV protection.

UV protection is essential for horses exposed to sunlight with little or no skin pigment. The areas around the horse’s eyes and muzzle are particularly prone to sun damage, and the horsefly mask with UV protection blocks some of the harmful rays and provides shade for sensitive eyes.

Our pick for a horsefly mask that offers the best UV protection.

The Field Relief mask effectively blocks 70 percent of the sun’s harmful rays. Click here to check the price on Amazon. Amazon customers rated the Field Relief Mask 5 out of 5 stars.

Fly masks are also used to protect a horse’s face and ears when it has sustained an injury or is recovering from an illness. Some horsefly masks cover most of a horse’s head, including its ears.

When horses are sick or have an open wound, a veterinarian may advise the horse to wear a horsefly mask to keep the affected area clean. Horses with open wounds need to keep as much bacteria out as possible to avoid infection.

The Cashel Crusader Fly Mask with Ears is made of durable material and extends over the horse’s nose. It also has three holes on the top, two for the ears and one for the forelock.

Our pick for the best horsefly mask that protects a horse while grazing.

Cashel is a trusted brand in the fly mask industry and has been rated by over 200 customers with an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5. You can click this link to check prices or click this link to read what customers have to say about the Cashel horsefly mask.

5 tips to keep horseflies away:

Take care of your animals daily. Keeping them clean is an easy way to avoid brakes;

Keep your barn tidy and dispose of manure and old shavings far from your barn;

Have good drainage, no standing water should be near your coop.

Have stable fans for every horse in your stable, the air will keep flies away from your animals.

Keep the area around your barn clean and tidy, with no tall grass or weeds.

FAQ

10 Lies About Horses You Shouldn’t Believe – by Don Jessop

1. Never look a horse in the eye

This common misconception stems from a very basic and ancient notion that horses are prey animals and for that reason cannot tolerate the peering eyes of a predator. Many beginner trainers and some more advanced trainers adhere to this principle. But they are misguided. You are only a predator if you intend to eat what you are looking at. Horses can easily distinguish between a predator looking for food and a predator looking curious and puzzled. However, horses have trouble understanding the intent of a person who hides their eyes. When you hide your gaze, you often appear sneaky or suspicious. This might be a good strategy for an aggressive dog, but it can have a negative effect on a horse. It doesn’t always have a negative effect, but it can, and that’s something to be aware of.

There is one exception to the “don’t look your horse in the eye” theory: This exception occurs when you first encounter an extremely fearful and shy horse. It’s useful to drop your gaze and energy in those first moments, to show absolutely no body language that could be misconstrued as predatory. But after just a few brief moments, you can lift your gaze and begin to form a genuine connection with curiosity and wonder emanating from your heart, your mind, and your eyes. I’ve never met a horse I couldn’t look into the eyes and share my heart in moments and I’ve met tens of thousands of horses now. It’s your intention that counts, not your eyes, ears, mouth, arms, or feet.

2. Kick to go

With every rule there is an exception, so there may well be times when pressing your heels against your horse isn’t enough and you have to kick your horse to get an answer. This exception is usually in the event of an emergency, e.g. B. when a horse gets stuck in the middle of the road when a car approaches. But in almost all other cases, you shouldn’t be kicking to walk. Simply because it is not elegant! Mastery horsemanship uses techniques that are elegant.

Training a horse to go from a simple, soft, gentle push from the heels or even from the calf muscles is far more elegant. Horses learn to do whatever you repeat and reward, so you can decide what signals to use to ask to leave. Kicking to go is a signal, yes, but it is not desirable for the horse or anyone watching you ride. To prove this point, I want you to look at an old Western film where the actor moves the horse and then compare that to the film Quigley Down Under with Tom Selleck. Watch as he tells his horse to go. Tom hired and was trained by a master for this film. I happen to know because this master (Pat Parelli) was my own teacher for almost fifteen years. I have been fortunate to work and live with Pat and Linda for many years and they will agree. Master Trainers do not train their horse by kicking it.

3. Pull until it stops

The same principle applies here. We were taught a lie that you should pull the reins to stop your horse. The reality is that you will have to pull the reins initially, especially when training young horses, but if you have mastery in mind you will discover that there are other, more elegant ways of stopping your horse. For example, my horse will stop if I slow my breathing and sink slightly in the saddle. Watch a reining performance trainer come to a full gallop and never lift the reins. It is wonderful. It’s elegant. It’s championship. You can also teach your horse to stop without pulling on the reins. In fact, you can decide which signal to use, as any signal will work. Believe it or not, kicking your horse can be a signal to get your horse to stop. I wouldn’t recommend it because it’s counterintuitive and not very elegant, but every signal supported and rewarded and repeated becomes part of your intimate language between you and your horse.

4. Show him who’s boss

Remember when I said there’s always an exception to the rule… this principle still applies. There may be times when you need to show your horse who’s in charge, especially in safety situations. But this concept of domineering alone is a big fat lie because you also need to bond with your horse and show him that you care about his experience more than anyone else on the planet.

I don’t even like the boss analogy when it comes to leadership. In my book, Leadership and Horses, I talk a lot about the models we use to describe our interactions with horses. My favorite model is the teacher-student/model or the parent/child model. These describe a loving, supportive, growth-oriented learning and leadership mode rather than the consequence and pressure model dictated by most boss/employee models.

5. You need a little driving

It’s okay to drive with a bit. But thinking you must have a bit of a drive isn’t accurate thinking…it’s old, militant thinking. In fact, bits were invented in the first place to ensure that any novice rider could hop on a horse and march into war with more control. Imagine you were a war general in centuries past, and imagine putting a dozen greenhorn riders on ill-trained horses that didn’t wear reins, and you’ll be able to follow horses’ reasoning who need dentures. But as with everything horsemanship, there are basic rules and advanced rules. The more advanced, masterful trainers know that you don’t need a bit to communicate with a horse. We no longer have to go to war on horseback, giving you more time to bond and bond and guide your horse to understand more elegant, subtle signals. Look on YouTube, type in the phrase “riding without a bit” and discover hundreds of videos (some good, some not so good) of people riding their horse bareback. When you observe other people… look for elegance and harmony. Those are the signals of the championship.

6. Bits are bad

That too is a lie. You don’t have to use a bit, true, but saying that bits are bad is also an unbalanced perspective typical of natural trainers. Humans are strange creatures. Once we learn one thing, we tend to only see that one thing and everything else is bad or stupid. Then one day we find out that the other thing wasn’t that bad and we switch sides completely. I see that every day. I see traditional riders entering the natural horsemanship industry and choosing to throw away all their past experiences as unhealthy or bad. Much can be learned from tradition and it would be foolish to “throw out the baby with the bathwater”, so to speak.

Bits have value. I don’t like them, I don’t usually use them, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have value. High performance trainers can use the bit as a tool to balance a horse in a complicated maneuver and wean the horse off this tool over time. Even low-performing drivers can benefit a little from it. This allows them to feel more confident in the beginning, then they can learn more advanced training modes over time. The idea behind this paragraph is that accepting a concept as pure truth can be detrimental to progress and communication. The key is to stay open to experience and to ask why someone would use a particular tool without judging that someone or that tool.

7. Horses know everything

In a recent post (one thing you should never do with horses), I describe how horses have the brains (cognitive awareness and emotional strength) of a four-year-old human child. It is an agile brain that quickly adapts to the environment. It’s a brain designed to sense and evade threats, but the horse’s brain’s level of concentration is very similar to that of a young child. Puzzles, detailed memory challenges, and processes often get lost in the context of “preservation-first” thinking. So if you’ve ever heard someone say, “My horse already knows that.” What they really want to say is, “My horse already did that.” But that doesn’t mean that the horse actually remembers the details of the exercise, the sequence of events where, following certain signals, something should happen next.

Whenever I hear someone say, “My horse knows that,” I often respond by asking them to immediately answer this question: What is 15 x 8 equal to? If they don’t respond right away, I jokingly chide them for not remembering something they’ve definitely encountered at some point in their lives, and then apologize because nobody likes to be embarrassed like that. Not even horses!

Remember to give your horse some time to process the details, even if they’ve been there before. Keep in mind that their distraction may be high, and while not new to you, there may be a new smell or small noise that triggers thoughts that prevent positive reactions. Don’t compound the problem by assuming your horse knows what to do, which will only lead to frustration and poor leadership.

8. Training a horse requires a professional

That’s like saying parenting requires a pro. Trust me, once you get started, you’ll become professional pretty quickly. I have now helped thousands of students achieve their dreams without sending their horse to a trainer. This is an important part of my business and also my life vision. Important to my business because a large part of my business is teaching people to train their own horses rather than sending the horse to a trainer for 60 days.

I have successfully helped people of all ages and physical abilities, even people in their 70’s, train their own horses with my home study and championship coaching courses.

This work is also important to my life vision because I believe there is an amazing leadership lesson to be learned from the challenge of horse training. My vision is to help horses have a great life around people, but it’s also to help people become the best version of themselves no matter what they choose in life.

Horses are a great vehicle to learn and test your own courage, control, discipline, kindness, communication and more. I believe that anyone who owns a horse should do all of the training themselves long term, even if it means postponing trail riding for a while. In the short term I think it’s wise to learn from a professional, take lessons, ensure you are confident in learning new skills and getting better at handling your horse, but the long term training should always be you!

9. Horses do not experience human emotions

This is perhaps the greatest of all lies. In fact, horses feel and experience every human emotion. They’re sad, they’re afraid of loss, they feel pain, they’re hungry, they feel tension when they need to pee but don’t have time, they’re excited and happy and playful. They feel anger and resentment. you feel everything! True master trainers know this. Science has proven that horses have the emotional and cognitive awareness of a four-year-old human. This kid may not know how to qualify or label an emotion, but you can bet they feel every single emotion on the spectrum. Some emotions come and go quickly, like an outburst of anger, but others persist due to the pressure of circumstances.

Knowing that horses sense all of our emotions can sometimes put people off riding horses, but it doesn’t have to. Horses can still benefit from the exercise and stimulus we offer them because one emotion they also experience is boredom. Imagine you were locked in a small cage as a four-year-old child. You would get bored pretty quickly. Master trainers work with the horse’s emotions to neutralize negative emotions and guide the horse towards calmer, happier emotions. It makes the journey exciting and enriching for horse and human when the trainer notices how horses actually feel about everything.

10. Horses like to be ridden.

That is only partly a lie. Many horses don’t like being ridden at all and only give in because they have to. This can be backed up with sound observational science. But for those special few horses who are lucky enough to have a great friend, leader and trainer like you, they can actually learn to love being ridden. This requires a level of mastery that few people know about, but you now have the opportunity to learn it, starting now! Take a chance with me and check out the Horse Mastery Group. It’s free to watch and it will change your horse’s life!

American racehorse with blinker hood.

Blinkers, sometimes called blinders, are a piece of bridle that prevents the horse from looking backwards and, in some cases, sideways.[1]

Description[edit]

Blinkers usually consist of leather or plastic cups fitted on either side of a horse’s eyes – either attached to a bridle or to an independent hood. Blinkers that have a peep hole in the back of the cup are called sights.[2] Many racehorse trainers believe that blinkers focus horses on what’s in front, encouraging them to pay attention to the race instead of distractions like crowds. In addition, driving horses often wear blinkers to prevent them from being distracted or startled, especially on crowded city streets. Most equestrian disciplines, except racing and trapeze competitions, do not permit the use of blinders at any time, under penalty of disqualification. In racing, spoons are usually attached to a synthetic hood placed under the bridle. When riding, they attach to the cheek pieces of the bridle.

Winker and pacifier[ edit ]

Winkers on an Australian racehorse.

Sometimes a “set of blinkers” can refer to blinkers,[3] but blinkers can also refer to a related bridle, usually fleece tubes that are placed on the cheek pieces of a bridle and function much like a shadow roll to limit a horse’s range of vision rear. They don’t restrict the horse’s vision as much as blinkers do.

Blinkers (fleece rolls placed around the cheek straps of the bridle) may be used in Australian Thoroughbred horse racing. Also used in Australian racing are “pacifiers”, which are a blinker-style hood with mesh eye covers, which some believe are intended to calm horses. They cannot be used on wet days as they can clog with mud.

British blinders[ edit ]

In the United Kingdom, a bag or cloth bandage placed over a difficult horse’s head while it is being handled (e.g. loaded into starting gates or mounted) is known as a blinder.

Metaphorical usage[ edit ]

Both “Blinker” and “Blinder” are also used metaphorically to refer to people with too narrow a focus or an inability to see the big picture. The term can be taken to imply “a restriction or impairment of vision or judgment”.[5]

See also[edit]

References[edit]

Further Reading[edit]

One of the most unfortunate and frightening moments in a horse owner’s life is a barn fire – and this scenario is also one where bandaging a horse may be the only way to safely remove it from a burning barn or wildfire area. Since your horse will already be panicked and frightened, putting on a blindfold for the first time in this situation could scare him even more, giving you another reason to practice before an emergency. It can allow you to lead him far enough away that he doesn’t instinctively turn and run back to the stable or paddock to seek his traditional safe haven.

Uveitis is inflammation in the eye. Inflammation usually occurs when your immune system is fighting an infection. Sometimes uveitis means your immune system is fighting an eye infection — but it can also happen when your immune system is attacking healthy tissue in your eyes. Uveitis can cause problems like pain, redness, and vision loss.

Uveitis damages the part of the eye called the uvea — but it often affects other parts of the eye as well. Sometimes the uveitis goes away quickly but can come back. And sometimes it’s a chronic (long-term) condition. It can affect 1 eye or both eyes.

Uveitis can cause vision loss if left untreated — so it’s important to see your eye doctor right away if you have symptoms.

When the inside of your eye becomes irritated and inflamed, it’s called uveitis (pronounced du-vee-EYE-tis). It affects the middle layers of your eye, also called the uveal tract or uvea. This also includes the iris (colored part of your eye), the choroid (a thin membrane that contains many blood vessels), and the ciliary body (the part of the eye that connects these together). The uvea is an important part of your eye because its many veins and arteries carry blood to the parts of the eye that play important roles in your vision.

Complications of uveitis can be serious and include:

glaucoma

Cataract

Abnormal growth of blood vessels in the eyes that affects vision

fluid in the retina

vision loss

There are several treatments for uveitis depending on the severity of the condition. Eye drops, steroid injections, oral prednisone, immunosuppressive drugs, or even surgery or steroid implants are used to control inflammation. It is important that treatment begins immediately. If there is an infection, antibiotics will be prescribed. If not, your eye doctor can prescribe steroid eye drops or pills to reduce swelling and medication to reduce pain. You may be given drops that dilate your pupil to prevent eye spasms and other problems. Dark glasses can help with the sensitivity to light caused by the uveitis.

With treatment, uveitis can resolve in as little as 2-5 weeks, although it may take several months to resolve, depending on the severity.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing uveitis. If you experience irritated or sore eyes, contact Pennachio Eye in Clermont at 325-227-1999 or on their website. dr Pennachio will assess your condition and treat your uveitis accordingly.

ERU is an autoimmune disease in which inflammatory processes in the body damage the eye. There are two forms of the disease. Acute or traumatic uveitis and chronic recurrent uveitis. Not every horse with a single bout of uveitis will develop ERU, but horses that have experienced acute uveitis are at greater risk. The exact mechanism of the disease is still unknown, but many bacterial, viral, parasitic, and non-infectious pathogens, including Leptospira spp. There is no gender or age predisposition to ERU. However, Appaloosas, warmbloods and draft breeds are at greater risk, suggesting there may be an inherited genetic component. ERU can be unilateral or bilateral and affect the eyes asymmetrically.

The disease process is based on a change in the eye’s blood barrier, which allows white blood cells to penetrate the internal fluid in the eye. The white blood cells (leukocytes) release pro-inflammatory chemicals (cytokines, prostaglandins and leukotrienes). These inflammatory mediators upset the delicate balance in the eye and cause the clinical symptoms. The most common signs of acute ERU are swollen, watery eyes, squinting and red blood vessels on the sides of the eye, horses are very sensitive to light and in some cases opacities with a blue or green tint appear. Acute signs also include shaking of the head and possible ulcers. Corneal scarring, glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal degeneration are all signs consistent with chronic ERU changes that are responsible for the clinical symptoms seen in the eye, such as muscle spasms, constriction of the pupil, oedema, opacity of the fluid in the eye, and consequent visual impairment.

ERU is an autoimmune disease in which inflammatory processes in the body damage the eye. There are two forms of the disease. Acute or traumatic uveitis and chronic recurrent uveitis. Not every horse with a single bout of uveitis will develop ERU, but horses that have experienced acute uveitis are at greater risk. The exact mechanism of the disease is still unknown, but many bacterial, viral, parasitic, and non-infectious pathogens, including Leptospira spp. There is no gender or age predisposition to ERU. However, Appaloosas, warmbloods and draft breeds are at greater risk, suggesting there may be an inherited genetic component. ERU can be unilateral or bilateral and affect the eyes asymmetrically.

The disease process is based on a change in the eye’s blood barrier, which allows white blood cells to penetrate the internal fluid in the eye. The white blood cells (leukocytes) release pro-inflammatory chemicals (cytokines, prostaglandins and leukotrienes). These inflammatory mediators upset the delicate balance in the eye and cause the clinical symptoms. The most common signs of acute ERU are swollen, watery eyes, squinting and red blood vessels on the sides of the eye, horses are very sensitive to light and in some cases opacities with a blue or green tint appear. Acute signs also include shaking of the head and possible ulcers. Corneal scarring, glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal degeneration are all signs consistent with chronic ERU changes that are responsible for the clinical symptoms seen in the eye, such as muscle spasms, constriction of the pupil, oedema, opacity of the fluid in the eye, and consequent visual impairment.

Moon blindness, an inflammatory eye condition, was historically named for its misperceived association with the phases of the moon. We now know that moon blindness has nothing to do with the moon and can recur over the course of weeks or months. It causes pain and discoloration of the eye, and affected horses are very sensitive to bright sunlight. Some horse breeds appear to be more susceptible than others – Appaloosas in particular. Because this condition is progressive and can cause blindness, owners should seek veterinary attention as soon as symptoms appear.

What is moon blindness?

Technically known as equine recurrent uveitis (ERU), moon blindness is generally considered to be an autoimmune disease characterized by recurrent inflammatory episodes in one or both eyes. It is the leading cause of blindness in horses.

Moon blindness symptoms

Moon blindness symptoms affect one or both eyes. A horse will be reluctant to be in bright sunlight and will show signs of pain or irritation that antibiotic treatment will not relieve.

symptoms inflammation

redness of the eye area

Cloudiness or whitening of the eye

tear (pour)

squinting

blindness

Some horses with moon blindness may experience recurrent inflammation followed by relatively painless periods. Others experience constant low-level inflammation. Owners may initially attribute redness, tearing, and squinting to an environmental irritant or an eye infection, but measures to treat these conditions have little effect on moon blindness.

Moon blindness is considered relapsing because it appears to resolve and then spontaneously recurs. In some horses, recurrence can occur over years, or flare-ups can occur much more frequently, with episodes appearing within weeks or even days.

Left untreated, moon blindness can lead to cataract formation or prolonged inflammation, both of which are likely to lead to permanent blindness.

Causes of moon blindness

There are several possible causes of moon blindness, although there is likely a genetic predisposition to autoimmunity underlying external triggers, which may include:

Bacteria (leptospirosis)

vitamin deficiency

physical injuries

equine flu

Tooth and hoof abscesses

Deworming medication

Appaloosas and German Warmbloods are two breeds that appear to be particularly prone to moon blindness due to hereditary factors.

Diagnosis of moon blindness in horses

To diagnose moon blindness, your veterinarian will consider the horse’s recent eye health history. Recurring episodes of inflammation indicate moon blindness and help rule out other eye problems. In addition, your veterinarian will perform extensive eye exams, including fluorescein staining, to determine the condition of the cornea and retina.

treatment of moon blindness

Treatment options for moon blindness include steroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and mydriatics for inflammation and pain. During acute moon blindness it is important to protect your horse from bright light either with a mask or by keeping him indoors.

Any time this condition recurs, you must resume treatment. Frequent flare-ups may prompt some horse owners to resort to euthanasia. If only one eye is affected, the eye can be removed. Surgery to implant a drug-laden disc in the eye seems promising but is not yet common practice.

Prognosis for horses with moon blindness

Unfortunately, there is no cure for moon blindness, but early treatment can help slow the progression of the disease. More than half of the horses that develop moon blindness eventually go blind.

How to prevent moon blindness

Little can be done to prevent moon blindness, but good nutrition, a clean environment, fly control, and attentive grooming will help your horse be as healthy as possible. If you notice eye inflammation or discharge, call your veterinarian so treatment can be started promptly if needed.

A corneal ulcer occurs in most horses

Getting into the stable and finding that your horse is squinting and tearing excessively in one eye is enough to worry any horse owner. Injuries to the eye and surrounding areas of the head and face are relatively common in horses due to their inquisitive nature and their interactions with each other and with surrounding structures such as stable doors, fence posts, trees and water troughs.

Corneal ulcers, or abrasions of the ocular surface, are one of the most common ophthalmic conditions seen by equine practitioners in the field. Some are simple scratches that heal quickly, while others get more complex and involve bacterial or fungal infections that take much longer to heal. Regardless of their severity, they all need to be managed appropriately with your veterinarian to prevent/treat infection, control pain and speed healing.

Signs of corneal ulcers

The earliest signs that your horse might be suffering from a corneal ulcer are squinting, excessive tearing and avoidance of bright light. Any injury to the eye is painful and irritating, so horses often continue to rub the eye and can cause further damage, resulting in swollen eyelids and very red conjunctiva (tissue around the eye under the eyelids).

Because the eye hurts, the pupil of the affected eye is also very small, regardless of the amount of ambient light. In the early stages of inflammation, the eye around the corneal ulcer may develop a blue tint, which is a sign of corneal edema (fluid buildup).

Most corneal ulcers are superficial and usually heal within 3 to 7 days. However, horses are more likely to get corneal infections than other domesticated species, and these infections prolong healing time and threaten the overall health of the eye. Signs of a corneal infection include discoloration or increased cloudiness of the eye, increased pain, increased corneal edema (blue discoloration), small corneal blood vessels becoming visible, and failure to respond to medical therapy.

Get veterinary input on corneal ulcers

Because of this increased risk of infection, it is important that you contact your veterinarian if you suspect your horse has a corneal ulcer. Your veterinarian will work with you to develop a treatment plan that will work best for your horse. While you wait for your vet to arrive, here are some steps you can take to make your horse feel more comfortable in the meantime:

Don’t put anything in the eye: If you have an eye infection, steroid eye ointments will make the infection worse, so don’t “pre-treat” the eye until your vet can assess it. Protect your face and eye from further trauma: Watch your horse and make sure he’s not rubbing while you wait. If your horse is used to wearing a fly mask, this can be used to provide extra protection for the eye. Keep your horse in a stall with the lights off: Bright lights can be irritating to horses with corneal ulcers, so keeping them quiet in a dark stall may help reduce their discomfort.

Most horses will experience a corneal ulcer at some point in their lives. If you know what to look for and what to do, these opportunities will be less stressful for you and your horse. Your vet will be able to create a management plan that will make your horse feel better and get you back in the saddle as soon as possible.

– Sarah Kooy, DVM

By Dennis Brooks, DVM, PhD, Diplomat, American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists

SEEING IN THE HORSE: WHAT DOES THE HORSE “SEE”?

The horse has a total field of vision of almost 360 degrees, which means a horse can just about see its tail when its head is forward. A small frontal binocular field of 65 degrees develops postnatally. The horse’s retina is primed for detecting movement, and the horse uses both eyes until an object comes within 3-4 feet, when it is forced to turn or lower its head to continue observing with one eye . Cones are present in the horse’s retina, suggesting that they have the ability for color vision in the form of blue and red.

Eye problems in foals

A newborn foal may present with droopy eyelids, low tear secretion, a round pupil, reduced corneal sensitivity, an absence of a threat reflex for up to two weeks, and protruding lens sutures. Entropion is an inward rolling of the lid margin. This causes the eyelid hairs to rub against the cornea. It can be a primary problem in foals or secondary to dehydration or emaciation, as in “downer foals”. It can be repaired to prevent corneal ulcers in the newborn by placing sutures on the lid margin to roll out the offending lid margin.

Congenital cataracts in foals are common congenital eye defects. Surgery is recommended. Microphthalmos, or a small eye, is a common congenital eye defect in foals. A number of lesions may be present. Microphthalmic eye can be visual or associated with other eye problems that cause blindness.

Iridocyclitis, or uveitis, in the foal is generally a consequence of a serious illness and can occur in one or both eyes. Proteins, red blood cells, and white blood cells may be present. Severe unilateral blinding fibrinous uveitis secondary to plant toxins has been reported primarily in Thoroughbred foals and yearlings in the southern United States.

DISEASES AND SURGERY OF THE EYELIDS

Traumatic eyelid injuries

Lid injuries must be corrected as quickly and accurately as possible to prevent unwanted scarring and secondary corneal drying and ulceration. Eyelids are highly vascular and have a great ability to heal and resist infection. They can also swell quite a bit. Because of their extensive blood supply, minimal debridement is required, and an eyelid “appendage” or pedicle flap should never be removed as it can lead to exposure keratitis and corneal ulcers.

Upper lid damage is more significant in horses because the upper lid moves over more of the horse’s cornea than the lower lid. Preserving the edge of the lid is crucial if possible in order to preserve the function of the lid. The repaired lesion must be protected from “self-harm” with masks or hard shells.

Lid neoplasms

Eyelid melanomas are found in gray horses, with Arabians and Percherons also at increased risk. Melanomas can occur singly or in multiples. Treatment is with cimetidine, surgical excision, and/or cryotherapy.

Sarcoids are single or multiple tumors of the eyelids and ocular region in horses. Retroviruses and papillomaviruses may be involved in the etiology. It has been suggested that flies can transfer sarcoid cells from one horse to traumatic skin lesions in other horses. There are geographic differences in the aggressiveness of the sarcoid in horses. Mules appear to suffer from an aggressive form of sarcoids. Immunotherapy for sarcoids involves the use of attenuated Mycobacterium bovis cell wall extracts such as the immune stimulant Bacillus Calmette-Gaérin (BCG). Shrinking the sarcoid lesion with anti-psoriatic skin ointments and/or topical 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) for two weeks prior to BCG application may be beneficial. Cryotherapy, hyperthermia, carbon dioxide laser excision, intralesional chemotherapy, and intralesional radiation therapy can also be effective treatments for sarcoids. Intralesional chemotherapy drugs, including 5-FU or cisplatin, have been used with variable success rates. Homeopathic ointments and caustic chemical lotions are effective in treating some sarcoids.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common tumor of the eye and lids in horses. The cause may be related to the ultraviolet (UV) component of solar radiation, periocular pigmentation, and an increased susceptibility to carcinogenesis. The UV component is the most plausible carcinogenic agent implicated in SCC. Prevalence in horses increases with age, with the mean age at diagnosis being 11.1 plus or minus (???) 0.4 years in one report. Belgians, Clydesdales and other draft horses have a high prevalence of ocular SCC, followed by Appaloosas and Paints, with the lowest prevalence in Arabians, Thoroughbreds and Quarter Horses. White, off-white, and palomino hair colors predispose to ocular SCC, with lower prevalence in brown, brown, and black hair. Cryotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, radiofrequency hyperthermia, CO2 laser ablation, or intralesional chemotherapy should be given after surgical excision of ocular SCC in horses.

DISEASES OF THE HORNS

Corneal ulceration in horses

Corneal ulceration in horses is a very common and sight-threatening disease that requires early clinical diagnosis, laboratory confirmation, and appropriate medical and surgical therapy. Ulcers can range from simple, superficial breaks or abrasions in the corneal epithelium to full-thickness corneal perforations with iris prolapse. The horse’s prominent eye can predispose to traumatic corneal injuries. Both bacterial and fungal keratitis in horses can have a mild, early clinical course but require immediate therapy if serious ocular complications are to be avoided. Corneal ulcers in horses should be treated aggressively, no matter how small or superficial they may be. Corneal infections and uveitis are always a big problem with even the slightest corneal ulcer. Iridocyclitis, or uveitis, occurs with all types of corneal ulcers and requires treatment to preserve vision.

Proteinases in the tear film

Tear film proteinases normally provide a monitoring and repair function to detect and remove damaged cells or collagen caused by regular wear and tear of the cornea. These enzymes exist in balance with inhibitory factors to prevent excessive breakdown of normal tissues. In pathologic processes such as ulcerative keratitis, excessive levels of these proteinases can lead to rapid degeneration of collagen and other components of the stroma, potentially causing keratomalacia, or “melting” of the cornea.

Corneal sensitivity in foals and adult horses

Corneal sensation is important for corneal healing. The cornea of ​​the adult horse is very sensitive compared to that of other animals. Corneal touch threshold analysis revealed that the corneas of sick or hospitalized foals were significantly less sensitive than those of adult horses or normal foals. Also, the incidence of corneal diseases is much higher in sick newborns than in healthy foals of a similar age. This reduced sensitivity may partially explain the absence of clinical symptoms commonly seen in sick neonates with corneal ulcers.

Corneal healing in horses

The thickness of the equine cornea is 1.0 to 1.5 mm in the middle and 0.8 mm at the periphery. Healing of superficial, uninfected, large diameter corneal ulcers is generally rapid and linear for five to seven days and then slows. Healing of ulcers in the second eye may be slower than in the first eye and is related to increased tear proteinase activity. The healing time of an uninfected corneal wound with a diameter of 7 mm in horses is almost 12 days (0.6 mm/day).

The equine corneal microenvironment

The horse’s environment is such that the conjunctiva and cornea are constantly exposed to bacteria and fungi. The equine corneal epithelium is a formidable barrier to the colonization and entry of potentially pathogenic bacteria or fungi normally present on the surface of the equine cornea and conjunctiva. A defect in the corneal epithelium allows bacteria or fungi to attach to the cornea and cause infection. Infection should be considered likely in any equine corneal ulcer. Fungal involvement should be suspected if there is a history of corneal injury with vegetative material or if a corneal ulcer has received prolonged antibiotic and/or corticosteroid therapy with little or no improvement. Excessive proteinase activity is referred to as “melting” and results in a liquefied, grayish-gelatinous appearance of the stroma near the ulcer edge. Horse corneas show a pronounced fibrovascular healing response. The horse’s unique corneal healing properties in relation to excessive corneal vascularization and fibrosis appear to be highly species specific. Horses with sore eyes must have their corneas stained with both fluorescein dye and rose bengal dye because fungal ulcers are negative for fluorescein but positive for rose bengal in the earliest stages. Corneal cultures should be taken first, followed by corneal swabs for cytology. Mixed bacterial and fungal infections may be present.

Medical therapy

Once a corneal ulcer is diagnosed, therapy must be carefully considered to ensure comprehensive treatment. Medical therapy almost always involves the initial major push in ulcer control, albeit mitigated by the judicious use of concomitant surgical procedures. This intense pharmacological attack should be modified according to its potency.

antibiotics

Topical antibiotics such as chloramphenicol, bacitracin-neomycin-polymyxin B, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, or tobramycin eye solutions can be used to treat bacterial ulcers. The frequency of medication varies from q2h to q8h. Cefazolin (55 mg/ml), chloramphenicol, bacitracin and carbenicillin are effective against beta-hemolytic streptococci. Ciloxan (ciprofloxacin), amikacin (10 mg/mL), and polymyxin B (0.25% IV solution) can be used topically in gentamicin-resistant Pseudomonas.

collagenolysis prevention

Severe corneal inflammation secondary to bacterial infection (particularly Pseudomonas and hemolytic beta streptococci) or, much less commonly, fungal infection can result in sudden, rapid corneal liquefaction and perforation. Activation and/or production of proteolytic enzymes by corneal epithelial cells, leukocytes, and microbial organisms are responsible for stromal collagenolysis, or fusion. Serum is biologically non-toxic and contains an alpha-2 macroglobulin with antiproteinase activity. Topically applied serum may reduce tear film and corneal protease activity in equine corneal ulcers. The serum can be applied topically as often as possible and should be replaced with new serum every eight days.

treat uveitis

Atropine sulfate is a common therapeutic for equine eye problems. Topically applied atropine (1%) is effective in stabilizing the blood-water barrier, reducing vascular protein leakage, minimizing pain from ciliary muscle spasms, and reducing the likelihood of synechiae formation from pupillary dilation. Atropine can be applied topically q4h to q6h, reducing the frequency of administration as the pupil dilates. Topical atropine has been shown to increase gut transit time, reduce and eliminate gut sounds, and decrease normal myoelectrical patterns in the small and large intestines of horses. Some horses appear to be more sensitive to these effects of atropine than others and may “react” with signs of colic and/or prolonged intestinal transit.

Systemically administered NSAIDs such as phenylbutazone (1 g BID PO) or flunixin meglumine (1 mg/kg BID, IV, IM or PO) can be used orally or parenterally and are effective in reducing uveal exudation and relieving ocular discomfort from the Anterior uveitis in horses with ulcers.

Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as profenol, flurbiprofen, and diclofenamic acid (BID to TID) can also reduce the degree of uveitis. Horses with corneal ulcers and secondary uveitis should be rested in the stable until the condition has resolved. Intraocular bleeding and increased severity of uveitis are sequelae of overexertion.

conjunctival flap

Conjunctival grafts or flaps are widely used in equine ophthalmology for the clinical management of deep, melting and large corneal ulcers, descemetocele and perforated corneal ulcers with and without iris prolapse.

Inappropriate therapy and ulcers

Topical corticosteroids can promote bacterial and fungal growth by interfering with nonspecific inflammatory responses and cellular immunity. Corticosteroid therapy is contraindicated in all types of treatment for corneal infections. Even topical instillation of corticosteroids to reduce the size of a corneal scar can be disastrous if organisms remain indolent in the corneal stroma.

**PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING**

* Corneal ulcers are often not clearly visible, even with appropriate examination lighting.

* Any red or sore eyes must be stained with fluorescein and rose bengal dyes.

* A slowly progressive, indolent course often hides the seriousness of the ulcer.

* Corneal ulcers in horses can quickly lead to an eye rupture.

* Topical corticosteroids are bad if the cornea retains fluorescein staining.

* Uveitis caused by a corneal ulcer or stromal abscess can be very difficult to control.

Fungal Ulcers in Horses

Fungi are normal inhabitants of the horse’s environment and conjunctival microflora, but can become pathogenic after corneal injury. Aspergillus, Fusarium, Cylindrocarpon, Curvularia, Penicillium, Cystodendron, yeasts and molds are known causes of equine canker sores. Saddlebreds appear to be susceptible to severe keratomycosis, while Standardbreds are resistant. The therapy is quite lengthy and the scarring of the cornea can be noticeable. The fungi are overall more susceptible to antifungal drugs in this order: natamycin = miconazole > itraconazole > ketoconazole > fluconazole.

HORNEAL STROM ABSESSES

Focal trauma to the cornea can inject microbes and debris into the corneal stroma through small epithelial ulcerative micropunctures. A corneal abscess may develop after epithelial cells adjacent to the epithelial micropuncture divide and migrate across the small traumatic ulcer to encapsulate infectious agents or foreign bodies in the stroma. Epithelial cells cover a fungal infection rather than a bacterial infection. Medical therapy consists of aggressive use of topical and systemic antibiotics, topical atropine, and topical and systemic NSAIDs. Deep lamellar and penetrating keratoplasty (PK) are used in abscesses near Descemet’s membrane and in eyes with abscess rupture into the anterior chamber. PK eliminates sequestered microbial antigens and removes necrotic debris, cytokines and toxins from degenerating leukocytes in the abscess.

cataracts in horses

Cataracts are clouding of the lens and the most common congenital eye defect in foals. Horses show varying degrees of blindness as cataracts mature. Very small incipient lens opacities are common and not associated with blindness. As cataracts mature and become more opaque, the degree of blindness increases.

Cataract surgery in horses

Most veterinary ophthalmologists recommend surgical removal of cataracts in foals less than 6 months of age if the foal is healthy, has no uveitis or other eye problems, and the foal’s personality is tolerant of aggressive topical medical therapy.

Phacoemulsification cataract surgery is the most useful technique for the horse. This extracapsular procedure through a 3.2mm corneal incision uses a piezoelectric handpiece with an ultrasonic titanium needle in a silicone sheath to fragment and emulsify the lens nucleus and cortex after removal of the anterior capsule. The emulsified lens is then aspirated from the eye while maintaining intraocular pressure. The thin posterior capsule remains intact. Postoperatively, there is little inflammation in most horses after phacoemulsification cataract surgery and there is a faster return to normal activity with phacoemulsification than with other surgical techniques. The results of cataract surgery in foals by experienced veterinary ophthalmologists are generally very good, but the results of cataract surgery in adult horses with cataracts caused by ERU are often poor. The problem is that in eyes with ERU, new blood vessels form on the iris and anterior lens capsule and these can bleed during surgeries. The surgeon is often unable to stop the bleeding and severe hyphema results.

DISEASES OF THE UVEAL TRACT

Recurrent uveitis in horses (periodic ophthalmia, moon blindness, iridocyclitis)

Equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) is a common cause of blindness in horses. It is a group of immune-mediated diseases of diverse origin. Recurrence of anterior uveitis is the hallmark of ERU. In about 20 percent of cases, the disease is bilateral. While the pathogenesis is clearly immune-mediated, the specific causes of ERU are unknown. Hypersensitivity to infectious agents such as Leptospira interrogans is often considered a possible cause. Leptospiral titers for L. pomona, L. bratislava, and L. autumnalis should be requested in the US.

Positive titers for serovars of 1:400 or greater are significant. Serology for Leptospira pomona can be used to prognostically assess the likelihood of blindness in one or both eyes. Seropositive Appaloosas (100%) > seronegative Appaloosas (72%) > seropositive non-Appaloosas (51%) > seropositive non-Appaloosas (34%) for blindness in at least one eye within 11 years of the first flare.

A complete ophthalmologic examination should be performed to determine if the uveitis is associated with a corneal ulcer. The presence of a corneal ulcer precludes the use of topical corticosteroids but not topical nonsteroidal drugs. Inflammation of the brain is found in ERU. Irreversible blindness is a common consequence of ERU and is caused by retinal detachment, cataract formation, or severe chorioretinitis.

ERU therapy

The main goals of treating ERU are to preserve vision, reduce pain, and prevent or minimize recurrence of uveitis attacks. Targeted prevention and therapy is often difficult because the etiology is not always clear. Treatment should be aggressive and rapid in order to preserve the transparency of the ocular structures. The frequency of medication should be reduced slowly as clinical symptoms subside. Therapy can last for weeks or months and should not be stopped abruptly, otherwise a recurrence may occur.

Some horses need lifelong therapy!

Overall, the prognosis for ERU for a vision-saving cure is usually poor, but the disease can be controlled. The Appaloosa breed seems to suffer from the most severe cases.

Anti-inflammatory drugs, particularly corticosteroids and nonsteroidal drugs, are used to control intraocular inflammation, which is generally severe and can lead to blindness. Drugs can be administered topically as solutions or ointments, subconjunctivally, orally, intramuscularly, and/or intravenously. Prednisolone acetate or dexamethasone should be used initially. When frequent use of topical steroids is not practical, use of subconjunctival corticosteroids can be used. Systemic corticosteroids may be beneficial in severe, refractory cases of ERU, but they pose some risk of inducing laminitis and should be used with caution. The nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can add anti-inflammatory effects to the corticosteroids and are effective in reducing intraocular inflammation when a corneal ulcer is present. Topically, cyclosporine A may be effective in ERU. Flunixin meglumine, phenylbutazone, or aspirin are commonly used systemically to control intraocular inflammation. Some horses no longer respond to the beneficial effects of these drugs and it may be necessary to switch to one of the other NSAIDs to alleviate the clinical signs of ERU. Topical atropine minimizes synechia formation by inducing mydriasis and relieves some of the pain of ERU by relieving spasms of the ciliary body muscles.

Surgical considerations for ERU

Vitrectomy appears to be more beneficial in European warmbloods with ERU than in US Appaloosas with ERU. The reasons for this are not known. Cataracts occur in both regions in a high percentage of cases after vitrectomy. Retinal detachment can also occur postoperatively. Sustained release intravitreal Cyclosporin A implants may also be beneficial for the treatment of ERU.

RETINOPATHIES

Congenital stationary night blindness

Congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB) is found primarily in Appaloosa and is inherited as a sex-linked recessive trait. Cases are also noted in Thoroughbreds, Paso Finos, and Standardbreds. Clinical signs include low-light vision impairment with generally normal daytime vision, and behavioral uncertainty and unpredictability occurring at night. CSNB does not generally progress, hence the name, but cases of progression to daytime vision difficulties are noted. The ophthalmoscopic examination is normal. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs, race, and an electroretinogram (ERG) showing decreased scotopic b-wave amplitude and a large negative monotonic a-wave. CSNB appears to be caused by a functional abnormality in neurotransmission in the middle retina. There is no therapy for this condition, but affected animals should not be bred.

SUDDEN BLINDNESS

Acute blindness can be associated with head or eye trauma, ERU, glaucoma, cataract, intraocular hemorrhage, exudative optic neuritis, retinal detachment, or CNS disease. Acutely blind horses are extremely agitated, anxious and dangerous. Horses are amazingly adaptable to unilateral or bilateral blindness if they are allowed to adjust to their new condition. Several Internet websites are dedicated to the care of blind horses and other blind animals.

EYE DISEASES ASSOCIATED WITH CERTAIN HORSE BREEDS

APPALOOSA

1. Congenital inpatient night blindness (CSNB)

2. Congenital cataracts

3. Glaucoma

4. ERU

5. Papillary coloboma

ARABIC

1. Congenital cataracts

Belgian draft horses

1. Aniridia and secondary cataracts

2. Cataracts

MORGAN

1. Cataracts – nuclear, bilateral, symmetrical and non-progressive

quarter horse

1. Congenital cataracts

2. Entropion

ROCKY MOUNTAIN HORSE (chocolate coat color most commonly affected). Collectively, the corneal, iris, and ciliary body lesions are known as anterior segment dysgenesis.

1. Congenital miosis and corpora nigra and iris hypoplasia

2. Macrocornea

3. Ciliary cysts

4. Cataract, lens luxation

5. Retinal dysplasia, retinal detachment

WHOLE BLOOD

1. Congenital cataracts

2. Microphthalmia associated with multiple eye defects

3. Retinal dysplasia associated with retinal detachments in some cases

4. Entropion

5. Progressive retinal atrophy

Color dilute breeds

1. Iridal hypoplasia – photophobia

STANDARD BREDS

1. Retinal detachments

2. Congenital inpatient night blindness (CSNB)

PASO FINO

1.CSNB

2. Glaucoma

AMERICAN SADDLEBRED

1. Cataracts

2. Aggressive keratomycosis

WARM BLOOD

1. Glaucoma

2. ERU

MINIATURE HORSES

1. Cataracts

MULES

1. Aggressive sarcoids

REFERENCES Brooks DE: Equine Ophthalmology. Made easy. Teton NewMedia, Jackson, WY, 2002. Veterinary Ophthalmology 3(2/3): Equine Special Issue, 2000. Veterinary Clinics North American: Equine Practice 8(3): 451-457, 1992.

Reviewed by the original author in 2016.