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, Eyelid is Rolled In, Eyelashes Causing Irritation
Summary
A turned-in eyelid (entroption) is a fairly common problem in newborn foals. In this case, the eyelashes contact the eye surface, causing pain and irritation and resulting in watering, reddening and squinting.
Entropion is more common in foals that are dehydrated and sick but can be seen in healthy foals too. If not treated promptly, entropion can lead to permanent corneal scarring and can compromise future vision.
Eye problems in foals should be taken seriously because they can quickly damage the eye and make treatment much more difficult and prognosis worse. Eye problems in foals are often associated with other underlying disorders.
Entropion is more common in foals that are dehydrated and sick but can be seen in healthy foals too. If not treated promptly, entropion can lead to permanent corneal scarring and can compromise future vision.
Eye problems in foals should be taken seriously because they can quickly damage the eye and make treatment much more difficult and prognosis worse. 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 you notice other problems with the eye or the eye seems inflamed and painful.
- 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, do not allow this condition to continue or worsen over time. Contact your vet immediately, because this problem usually can be treated easily.What Not To Do
Do not assume that this condition will simply self-resolve on its own.
Skills you may need
Procedures that you may need to perform on your horse.
Less Common
your vet's role
Your vet will quickly identify this condition and provide practical treatment options, while evaluating the overall health of the foal. If eyeballs themselves have been irritated or damaged by the entropion, your vet may advise you to perform additional eye treatments.
Questions Your Vet Might Ask:
- How old is the foal?
- Does your foal seem normal otherwise?
- How is the foal's attitude and appetite?
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
