Cat Corneal Sequestrum: Welfare and Treatment

Corneal sequestrum is a painful eye condition unique to cats. Surgical treatment provides the best welfare outcome for this distinctive feline ophthalmological condition.

Key Facts

Corneal sequestrum involves necrosis of the corneal stroma forming a dark brown or black plaque
Persians and other brachycephalic breeds are most commonly affected
Causes include chronic corneal trauma, herpesvirus infection, and poor tear film
The sequestrum causes chronic pain and ocular discharge
Surgical keratectomy removal achieves excellent outcomes with appropriate aftercare

Welfare Considerations

Corneal sequestrum causes chronic ocular pain and discomfort from the irritation of the necrotic tissue and secondary corneal ulceration. Affected cats show signs including squinting, ocular discharge, pawing at the eye, and reduced activity from the pain. The distinctive brown-black appearance makes it visually recognizable. Conservative management may allow eventual spontaneous separation but takes months during which the cat experiences ongoing pain. Surgical keratectomy removes the sequestrum under anesthesia allowing rapid healing and pain resolution. The prognosis for vision and comfort is generally excellent with appropriate surgical management.

What You Can Do

Seek veterinary ophthalmology assessment for any cat with a dark spot on the eye surface
Do not delay treatment as the sequestrum causes ongoing pain
Follow post-operative medication protocols carefully including antiviral treatment for herpesvirus cases
Monitor for recurrence as cats with underlying herpesvirus are at risk of repeat sequestrum
Manage herpesvirus triggers including stress reduction for affected cats
Consider surgical correction of eyelid abnormalities in brachycephalic breeds that contribute to corneal trauma