Corneal sequestrum is a condition unique to cats where a dark, necrotic plaque forms on the cornea, causing chronic pain and vision impairment that requires surgical treatment for resolution.
Corneal sequestrum causes chronic ocular pain that owners may not recognize as severe because cats often tolerate discomfort stoically and do not cry out. Signs of pain include squinting, excessive blinking, facial rubbing, and reluctance to be touched near the eye, yet these are commonly dismissed as behavioral quirks. The underlying herpesvirus connection means stress exacerbates the condition - affected cats may experience reactivation events that worsen corneal disease. Brachycephalic breeds are disproportionately affected because their flat facial anatomy predisposes them to corneal exposure and drying, embedding a welfare vulnerability in popular breed standards. Veterinary ophthalmologist referral is often delayed due to cost or owner uncertainty, prolonging unnecessary pain. Post-surgical recovery requires diligent eye drop administration multiple times daily.