Very Common
Less Common
You also might be observing
Observation
What you see. The starting point for addressing any equine health related issue is your observation.
YOU ARE OBSERVING
Foal or Newborn, Born with Abnormal Eyes
Summary
Foals can be born with a variety of congenital eye abnormalities. The most common of these is entropion, in which the eyelids and eyelashes are rolled inward, causing irritation and eye discharge, and ultimately damage to the eye. This condition can usually be easily treated by your vet. There are a variety of other less common eye abnormalities seen in particular breeds, some of which may not be treatable.
Any eye problems in foals should be taken seriously because they can quickly damage the eye and make treatment much more difficult and the prognosis worse. Keep in mind that eye problems in foals are often associated with other underlying disorders.
Any eye problems in foals should be taken seriously because they can quickly damage the eye and make treatment much more difficult and the prognosis worse. Keep in mind that eye problems in foals are often associated with other underlying disorders.
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Code Red
Call Your Vet Immediately, Even Outside Business Hours- If the foal seems distressed or you think the eye is suffering damage.
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Code Orange
Call Your Vet at Their First Available Office Hours- If the signs are very mild and the eye appears normal otherwise.
your role
What To Do
Given the importance of your foal’s sight and the possibility of other problems, if your newborn foals eyes seem abnormal to you, contact your vet right away. Most vets like to perform a post-foaling exam soon after birth anyway.Try to capture the suspected abnormality in a photo (use good light and close up view) and send it to your vet for discussion.
What Not To Do
Do not take a "wait and see" approach when dealing with eye-related issues. Have a vet promptly evaluate the foal.
Skills you may need
Procedures that you may need to perform on your horse.
your vet's role
Depending on the circumstances, your vet may need to see your foal immediately, or they can evaluate your foal's eyes during the post-foaling exam.
Questions Your Vet Might Ask:
- How old is the foal?
- Is the foal active and nursing?
- What breed is the foal?
- Do you see eye watering, swelling, grayness to the surface, or evidence of pain?
- Describe specifically what you see.
- Can you send me a photo?
Diagnostics Your Vet May Perform
Figuring out the cause of the problem. These are tests or procedures used by your vet to determine what’s wrong.
Diagnoses Your Vet May Consider
The cause of the problem. These are conditions or ailments that are the cause of the observations you make.
Treatments Your Vet May Recommend
A way to resolve the condition or diagnosis. Resolving the underlying cause or treating the signs of disease (symptomatic treatment)
Very Common
