Pink eye

Attention! This is a potentially life-threatening condition for your horse. Time is of the essence, contact your veterinarian immediately.Find a Vet

Pink Eye

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is the inflammation of the conjunctiva (the outermost layer of the eye that also lines the inside of the eyelids). Inflammation can occur for a variety of reasons which include a reaction to environmental irritants and viral or bacterial infections.

Both eyes or someones only one eye can be inflamed. If conjunctivitis is found in one eye, it is usually caused by an inflamed tear sac, dry eye, a foreign object. If conjunctivitis is in both eyes it is usually due to viral or bacterial infection, or a reaction to environmental irritants.

Symptoms

Eye redness
Eye discharge
Pain
Swelling
Itchiness

Diagnosis

  • History
  • Clinical signs
  • Physical examination
  • Laboratory tests
  • Biopsy

Support

Therapies

TherapiesDetails
Topical prescribed antibiotic eye ointment
Treat underlying cause

Prevention

  • Wearing a fly mask during the daytime during periods of high insect activity
  • Reduce fly populations on property

Scientific Research

General Overviews

Risk Factors

  • High populations of flies on premises, especially face flies
  • Horses living in the same pasture as or border the property line with cattle

Seasonality

WinterSpringSummerAutumn