Entropion

Feline entropion most frequently affects the lower eyelids, causing chronic discomfort and discharge, and if left untreated it can lead to corneal ulceration and sequestrum formation. It often affects older cats, rather than kittens, and surgical correction is normally the best option to alleviate all symptoms and prevent damage to the cornea.

Feline Eosinophilic Keratitis

This is a chronic, inflammatory condition of the cornea, unique to cats, typically presenting with dense fibrovascular infiltrate and formation of white plaques on the corneal surface. Diagnosis is confirmed with cytology. Surgical intervention is not recommended, but medical treatment with topical steroids or cyclosporin is generally very efficient in controlling the condition, although this has to continue long term.

Corneal Sequestrum

Corneal sequestra develop following chronic corneal irritation, trauma, exposure (especially in brachicephalic cats), low tear production, entropion or anything causing ongoing disturbance to the cornea. Surgical excision with grafting is usually indicated, although mild cases may be medically managed where surgery is not feasible.

Bacterial Stromal Keratitis

Bacterial infection of the corneal stroma, usually as a consequence of a deep scratch, can result in rapidly progressive keratitis, causing intense pain and the risk of perforation. While some cases respond well to targeted and intensive antibiotic treatment, others may necessitate surgical intervention to preserve corneal integrity.

Corneal Hydrops (Feline Acute Bullous Keratopathy)

A rare but striking condition characterised by rapid formation of a large corneal bulla, grossly distorting the corneal profile. Urgent assessment and treatment are crucial to prevent corneal rupture, but cases generally respond well to surgery, either with a corneal graft, third eyelid flap or a combination of the two.