Common Foal Eye Problems

Learn about some of the most common eye problems found in foals and how they can be treated.
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Editor’s Note: This article was revised by the author to reflect new and updated information in November 2017.


The foal’s eyes are fully developed at birth. Disorders of the foal eye might be noted at birth, or they can be inherited or acquired after birth. Low tear film production, a round pupil, reduced corneal sensation, and a temporary lack of some neurologic eye reflexes are found in all newborn foals, but the values become adult-like with time. These temporary problems can affect healing of the eye if it’s injured while they are still present, so it’s important to understand them. Following are the most common foal eye problems; some occur at birth, and some are a result of disease or injury after birth.

Common Foal Eye Problems
Microphthalmos in this foal appears as a small abnormal eyeball. | Photo: Courtesy Dennis E. Brooks, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVO

Microphthalmos

Microphthalmos, a congenitally small globe (eyeball), is common in foals and can occur in one or both eyes. This differs from phthisis bulbi, in which a normal-sized globe shrinks from severe injury. Most microphthalmic eyes of foals are blind due to the presence of other ocular abnormalities such as cataracts. A small eyelid opening and prominent nictitans (third eyelid) might be seen in affected foals. Thoroughbreds appear to be at an increased risk for microphthalmos. There is no therapy for this condition

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Written by:

Dennis E. Brooks, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVO, is a professor of ophthalmology at the University of Florida. He has lectured extensively, nationally and internationally, in comparative ophthalmology and glaucoma, and has more than 140 refereed publications. He is a recognized authority on canine glaucoma, and infectious keratitis, corneal transplantation, and glaucoma of horses.

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